Hardship: Akeredolu would’ve spoken against it if alive – Bishop Fagbemi
The Diocesan Bishop of the Cathedral Church of Saint Andrew, Owo, Ondo State, Rt. Rev. Stephen Fagbemi, has said that if the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu were alive, he would have spoken out against the current hardship facing Nigerians.
Fagbemi made this statement during the first-year memorial service of the former governor held at the church in Owo.
As part of the commemoration, a biography titled ‘The Life and Times of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,’ authored by Dr. Wale Okediran and with a foreword by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), was launched. Additionally, there was a tree-planting ceremony and the unveiling of the former governor’s mausoleum in his hometown of Owo.
Fagbemi described Akeredolu as a bold and courageous leader who stood for justice and the welfare of the people.
“If the late governor were alive, he would have spoken against the current hardship Nigerians are facing. As a diocese, we remember his exceptional service as our Chancellor and a devoted member of the Church.”
He continued, “As a politician, he was known for his integrity and advocacy for justice, particularly his campaign for the southern presidency and power shift from the north.”
Fagbemi stressed the importance of prioritizing agriculture and security to address Nigeria’s ongoing challenges, adding, “Corruption continues to rob people of the true dividends of democracy.”
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, described Akeredolu as a courageous leader who was deeply committed to good governance.
“This remembrance is not a jamboree but a genuine desire to honor a man who made significant contributions to the state and the country. We will always remember him for rallying his colleagues to institutionalize the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun Corps, which has been instrumental in combating insecurity,” Aiyedatiwa said.
Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, in his tribute, highlighted Akeredolu’s fearlessness and dedication to truth.
“At our meetings in the Governor’s Forum, Aketi would say, ‘Whether they like it in Abuja or not, we will do it. Nothing will happen.’ In politics, courage is rare, but Aketi had it in abundance. He was compassionate, courageous, and unfazed even in the face of adversity,” Fayemi noted.
Speaking to journalists, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Jnr., the late governor’s first son, expressed deep emotions over his father’s absence.
“It’s been a long, tough year without Daddy. There’s a big hole, a lot of emptiness. I miss him so much, and though it’s been a year, it feels like five because of how much I’ve missed him,” he said.
The memorial events were attended by prominent figures, including the former Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; Senator Adeniyi Adegbomire; House of Representatives member Hon. Gboyega Adefarati; the APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; former political appointees, friends, and well-wishers from across the state.
The remembrance activities underscored Akeredolu’s lasting legacy as a bold, compassionate, and visionary leader.
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