The governor of Ondo state, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has charged Nigerian lawyers to emulate the late governor of the state, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, who, according to him, stood for justice, equity and fairness.
Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, disclosed this in Akure on Wednesday at a public lecture and award ceremony organized by the Akure branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in honor of the late governor.
He said, “we are all witnesses to the role Arakunrin played while at the helm of affairs as president of the Nigerian Bar Association and subsequently, as governor of our dear sunshine state. He was a man who left an indelible mark on the sands of time.
“No doubt, Arakunrin was an embodiment of patriotism, courage and justice. He was, at different times, at the forefront of the struggle for a just and equitable Nigeria.
“He believed that people, regardless of their tribe, religion and political affiliations, must be treated with utmost dignity and fairness. Therefore, I urge you, members of the legal profession, to continue to uphold the lofty ideals our dear Arakunrin stood for.”
Late Akeredolu was honoured with a ‘Posthumous Outstanding Leadership Award’, which was received by Hon. Justice Alero Akeredolu. Justice Akeredolu thanked the NBA for the honour, saying the late governor received numerous awards for his contributions to the growth of legal profession in Nigeria.
According to her, “I want to appreciate the NBA for honouring our father and leader even in death. While he was here, Arakunrin received many awards from different branches of the NBA, no matter how big or small, and was always appreciative of every single award”.
Governor Aiyedatiwa was equally honoured with an ‘Outstanding Leadership Award’ for running an open and accessible government.
Receiving the award on his behalf, Ondo state deputy governor, Olayide Adelami, assured the NBA of the governor’s support and commitment to the independence of the judiciary.
Chairman of the Akure NBA, Olabanjo Ayenakin, said plans to hold the event was already underway before Akeredolu passed away. He emphasized the late governor’s immense contribution to the legal profession in Ondo state and the country at large.
John Paul Akinduro
Spokesperson to Ondo State Deputy Governor
March 6, 2024