Maryam Aminu
Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience. Coping with such a loss may feel impossible and the idea of a life without this person can be daunting, confusing, and heartbreaking.
At the wee hours of Wednesday, the bell tolled for a father figure, an adviser, a counselor, and a guardian
The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande has mourned the passing of Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (SAN).
In a message he personally signed and made available to journalists on Wednesday, Olawande described the late Akeredolu as a father,an adviser, a counselor and a guardian.
“Arakunrin was much more than the governor of my state. He was in the class of people who were very dear to me . He cared for me so deeply and took a special and unexplainable liking towards me.”
He recalled many instances when the late governor Arakunrin always expressed his concerns over his personal wellbeing.
“The Governor often wrapped such jokes about me getting married. It is such a regret now that I would not have a chance to do that, which he had often spoken about in his presence.”
“I have always held the belief that none of us stands alone in this world and that the death of any of us affects all of us. Indeed, this is one death that affects me so significantly, especially considering the strength and courage I draw from the exemplary life of Arakunrin. This is why even in death, his legacy of principled politics and fight for justice, which he pursued through his practice of the law, and his commitment to defending the truth would remain a guiding compass throughout my public service life.” Said Olawande
The Minister who drew consolation from the fact that late Arakunri lived a memorable life in the service of his people said,
“Today, we do not mourn Arakunrin; instead, we celebrate his life of achievement and impact. We celebrate the rich life of a man who showed us, through the force of his character, that fair and transparent success is possible. His life achievements, as Ondo State Attorney General, as president of the Nigerian Bar Association and governor of Ondo state, were glaring testimonies to his well-charted life.”
He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased
“During this period, I stand in prayers with Mummy, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, and my deadr brother and friend, Babajide Akeredolu. I pray God accepts Daddy’s return, repose his beautiful soul, and watches over his legacy.”
