By Gideon Maxwell
Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State died on Wednesday morning, December 27, 2023, at a German hospital where he was receiving treatment, the state government said.
Announcing the development in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, the Ondo State government formally disclosed the passing of the governor and the cause of his death.
Mrs Ademola-Olateju also made it known that the state government had written to President Bola Tinubu to inform him of the tragedy.
The statement issued early on Wednesday read: “Mr Governor (Mr Akeredolu) peacefully departed from this world in the early hours of today, Wednesday, December 27, 2023,” she said in the statement.
“This tragedy has left behind a profound void in our hearts.
“Governor Akeredolu answered the eternal call while receiving medical treatment in Germany.
“He succumbed to complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.
“A letter has been sent to President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, to officially inform His Excellency of this devastating news.
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“The family and the Ondo State Government appreciate Mr. President for his support for Governor Akeredolu during his illness.
“The family and the state government will release further details regarding the funeral arrangements.
“Governor Akeredolu was an extraordinary leader whose unwavering dedication to the state and its people was both commendable and unparalleled.
“He not only served as the Governor of Ondo State but also emerged as a prominent advocate for the entire Southwest region and the nation. Governor Akeredolu was a courageous leader and an exemplar of integrity. The weight of this loss is truly unbearable.
“However, we find solace in the knowledge that Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu lived a purposeful life, devoted to the service of God Almighty.”
