The news of your death jolted me and I am yet to recover from the shock. Naturally, your protracted illness should have prepared me for the eventuality, but the desire to continue to enjoy more of your physical presence overrode my rational thinking.
Despite your frailty when I saw you last, your determination and struggle to live strengthened my hope for a possible recovery. But who are we to question God?
Your last words to me were, “Victor, don’t worry I’ll be fine”. I have no doubt in my mind that you are indeed fine now. Away from the pains and stress of illness and now resting in peace as you rightly deserved. Your demise created irreparable void not just because of the office you occupied but also because of who you truly were: A true friend and leader per-excellence.
Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, you were uniquely different in many ways and there can never be another Aketi. Your passion for the development of Ondo State and unity of our dear nation will forever be in our memories. The story of how you put your second term ambition on the line in defence of the Yoruba race will be shared with generations to come.
I served as the Director General of your campaign twice (first and second terms) because of my belief in your leadership and ability to lift our state up, and you didn’t disappoint. Thank you for your service and dedication to the wellbeing of our people. Your indelible mark in the education, health, governance and infrastructural development in Ondo State are priceless legacies for which we are all grateful. You, indeed, gave your all. Posterity will forever be kind to your memory.
My condolences to your wife, Arabinrin Betty Akeredolu, and children, your siblings and family, your friends and followers, the people of Owo and Ondo State in general. May God grant us all the fortitude to bear the pains of your untimely exit. May your soul rest in peace. You will be sorely missed.
Adieu my brother, friend, leader and Governor.
Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan is the Executive Chairman state Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB)
