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Tag: Akeredolu

  • Akeredolu’s kinsmen deny endorsing governor

    Akeredolu’s kinsmen deny endorsing governor

    Kinsmen of the late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Owo and Ose local governments have denied endorsing Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the party’s candidate ahead of the forthcoming primary election.

    They said a report claiming APC leaders in Owo and Ose have endorsed Aiyedatiwa was egregiously fallacious, patently deceptive and misleading.

    The Owo/Ose APC leaders said the event that transpired in Owo was a gathering of Aiyedatiwa’s loyalists for a political meeting, as evidenced by those present at the event.

    A statement by Fatai Olushina and Elefola Solomon said those at the gathering, who endorsed Aiyedatiwa, previously opposed Akeredolu’s interest in the state.

    Read Also: Tinubu approves appointment of FCTA Head of Service, Perm Sec, others

    The statement said a genuine consensus to endorse a candidate within the Owo and Ose APC chapters would be championed by renowned and steadfast leaders, whose political acumen was well recognised.

    “Footage retrieved from the event highlights the local government party chairman’s refusal to publicly endorse Aiyedatiwa, which led to an obvious awkward situation. This unfolding spectacle is as amusing as it is troubling. We remain vigilant of Aiyedatiwa’s escalating desperation and his campaign’s attempts to manufacture endorsements across the state.

    “Our resolve is firm in Owo and Ose, and within the broader APC family, to not let misrepresentations prevail. The loyalists of the late Governor Akeredolu’s leadership in Owo and across the state stand united in their rejection of Aiyedatiwa’s tactics to secure the party’s nomination. It is well documented that Aiyedatiwa’s treatment of the late governor was profoundly inhumane and deeply callous.

  • Akeredolu’s wife and battle for Ondo’s soul

    Akeredolu’s wife and battle for Ondo’s soul

    The governorship race is still months away, but the tension is palpable that it can be cut with a knife, writes Dapo Aderinola, a former editor, who hails from the state.

    Going through the OKEEKE MALUPELE platform as a matter of routine, a screaming headline: “You are a disgrace” caught my attention. It was an inescapable one illustrated with the photos of Arabirin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu and her late husband Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s niece, Funke-Akeredolu-Aruna.

    The cause of the spark seems to be the reported decision of Funke, the former deputy chief protocol officer to Akeredolu, to back Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the governorship election coming up in November, an action which in Lady Betty’s opinion, amounted to a disgrace.

    From all indications, as far as she was concerned, it would be odious for anyone from Aketi’s nuclear or extended family, regardless of their suitability, to have anything to do with his successor.

    And so for Lady Betty, Funke stands guilty as charged! By extension, so also should Agboola Ajayi, the former deputy governor who has reportedly thrown his hat in the ring on the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). And, of course, Olayide Adelami from Owo for accepting to be Aiyedatiwa’s deputy.

    When all hands should be on deck to heal the wounds of the past and unite for progress in the state, it will be terribly embarrassing to witness an outbreak of the war of in-laws in the state.

    It would be a damaging spectacle after Governor Aiyedatiwa has, in his wisdom, chosen Adelami, an illustrious son of Owo kingdom, as his deputy.

    How good and pleasant would it have been if Mrs Akeredolu had considered certain things before launching a social media attack on her in-law.

    In the United States of America (USA), Mary Trump has been running a sustained exposé on the behaviour of her brother, Donald Trump over his handling of the family’s property ever since he first ran for president. Melania Trump avoided labelling her sister in-law as one thing or another.

    At home, former President Muhammadu Buhari made Gbemisola Saraki a minister. Her brother, Bukola’s wife, Toyin, is not on record as calling her sister in-law a traitor for accepting the job.

    Many are in politics for selfish reasons. This is why the struggle for power at the centre is intense. These power profiteers and fortune- seekers daily compete for sartorial excellence across media platforms, pundits said.

    A check list of the staggering amounts of money stolen in the past and some of those involved is an assault to public sensibilities!

    Read Also: Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu

    If Funke has taken anything from the Akeredolus, Lady Betty has the right to feel hurt. The onus will then be on her to prove her claim.

    I would be happy to back her to the hilt, if that is the case.

    Methinks, there’s more to this incipient feud than meets the eye, barely a week after the burial of the late Governor Akeredolu. Time will tell.

    What Lady Betty needs to know is that by going into a fight with her in-law, she may be perceived as interfering in the affairs of the government and unwittingly harming the collective interest of Owo people under the Aiyedatiwa government.

    What greater honour can she ask for after the outpouring of  encomiums on her late husband by President Bola Tinubu, governors, the Bar and the Bench, among others?

    But if Funke decides to fight back in exercise of her right of reply, there is the risk of opening the Pandora’s Box, which is better kept under lock.

    The spectacle will not be elegant. It is hardly the best way to honour the memory of Aketi.

  • Akeredolu’s widow blasts in-law for supporting Aiyedatiwa

    Akeredolu’s widow blasts in-law for supporting Aiyedatiwa

    • I will clinch Ondo PDP ticket, Ajayi boasts 

    Ex-Ondo State governor’s widow, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has taken to social media to attack one of her in-laws, Funke Akeredolu Aruna, for supporting Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa ahead of his party, All Progressives Congress’ (APC’s) primary election.

    Aruna served as deputy chief protocol to the late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

    She was fingered as one  of those who leaked information about Akeredolu’s health.

    Mrs. Anyanwu-Akeredolu called Funke “shameless” in a post on her Instagram page.

    She posted a picture of her husband’s niece wearing a cap with an inscription “I am lucky”.

    In the post, Mrs Akeredolu said: “Behold the face of Aketi’s niece, Funke Akeredolu Aruna, the former deputy chief protocol to Aketi, shamelessly parades as ‘I am lucky’. Bloody serpent! Time will tell if she is truly lucky!”

    Ex-Ondo State Deputy Governor Agboola Ajayi has said he would emerge victorious at the governorship primary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), scheduled to hold next month.

    Ajayi, who declared his intention to contest as governor at a media parley in Akure, said he will protest if the primary is not transparent.

    He said he aspired to govern the state because he had the capacity and experience to keep “everybody busy.”

    The former deputy governor promised to build a railway to link coastal communities to Kogi State if elected.

    He said the state had no business to build a seaport, but to provide infrastructure in the riverine communities to attract investors to build the seaport.

    Ajayi said he understood how to run the state without relying on monthly allocation from the federation account.

    Read Also: Oronsaye report: Labour cautions Fed Govt against job loss

    He said the planned railway to link Kogi State would reduce the number of heavy duty trucks on the highway.

    The aspirant said he would not defect from the PDP if the primaries were conducted in a transparent manner. He said: “I understand how Ondo State can be governed and everybody will be happy. I understand what we need to revive the economy. I understand how to run the state without relying on Federal Government allocation. I can prove it to anybody. I understand where there is money in Ondo State. I understand how our elderly people can get what they are due for after retirement. I know how to engage youths. I know how to secure the society and I know that the economic activity of Ondo is best in the construction of road to link the riverine areas. If we do that, we will decongest Lagos State. What they have in Lagos is a small portion of what we have in Ondo State. We have the longest coastline in West Africa. We don’t need port Ondo for now. Investors will come and build the port if necessary infrastructures are put in place. What we need is to construct road to the sea. Agagu started it and the road terminated at Ugbonla. By now that road would have been taken to Ayetoro. If that road has been constructed, you will see more development and investors will invade Ondo State. Lagos State will be decongested. Somebody will come and build the port. What is the business of Ondo to build seaport? We need an enabling environment for investors to take over. We will continue to enjoy a safe economy.”

  • Ondo 2024: Akeredolu’s wife blasts in-law for supporting Aiyedatiwa

    Ondo 2024: Akeredolu’s wife blasts in-law for supporting Aiyedatiwa

    Former First Lady of Ondo state, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has taken to social media to attack one of her in-laws, Funke Akeredolu Aruna, for showing support for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa ahead of the party primary.

    Funke Aruna served as Deputy Chief Protocol to the late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

    She was fingered as one of those who leaked information about Akeredolu’s health.

    Read Also: Aspirant, Aiyedatiwa clash over governor’s certificate

    The former First Lady called Funke “shameless” in a post she shared on her Instagram page.

    She posted a picture of her husband’s niece wearing a cap with the inscription “I am lucky.”

    In the post, Betty said: “Behold the face of Aketi’s niece, Funke Akeredolu Aruna, the former deputy chief protocol to Aketi, shamelessly parades as ‘I am lucky’ Bloody serpent! Time will tell if she is truly lucky!”

  • Owo APC elders beg Aiyedatiwa not to abandon Akeredolu’s projects

    Owo APC elders beg Aiyedatiwa not to abandon Akeredolu’s projects

    Elders of All Progressives Congress in Owo/Ose have appealed to   not to abandon the projects of the late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu in the localities.

    They urge Aiyedatiwa to fulfill Akeredolu’s wish to build a cancer treatment at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo.

    A statement by Chairman, Chief Thomas Akinbola, said the road projects in Owo and Ose must not be stopped.

    The statement said Akeredolu came at a time Owo was in search of political leadership after the demise of Chief Adekunle Ajasin.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa orders arrest of thugs destroying opponents’ billboards

    According to the statement, “projects are going on in Owo and Ose. We appeal to Aiyedatiwa to complete the projects.

    “Akeredolu re-enacted political leadership in Owo. He achieved a lot not only in Owo but all parts of Ondo State.

    “He fought the Federal Government to establish Ondo State Security Corps, known as Amotekun, to curtail the menace of Fulani herdsmen.

  • Akeredolu: Adieu, soldier of liberation

    Akeredolu: Adieu, soldier of liberation

    • By Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye

    Sir: Still bearing the painful loss of their governor, Oluwarotim Akeredolu, the entirety of the people and friends of Ondo state mourns the loss of a true leader, a visionary, and a soldier of liberation. Reflecting on his tenure as the governor of Ondo state, many in Ondo state and beyond will agree that his impact was profound, his legacy enduring. Akeredolu’s achievements in Ondo State are numerous and far-reaching, touching the lives of countless individuals across the region, regardless of class and caste. Many will attest to his commitment to infrastructure development, security, healthcare improvement, and education reform has left an everlasting mark on the landscape of the state.

    Through his policies and initiatives, he transformed Ondo State into a beacon of progress and opportunity. In the face of rising insecurity and threat to the safety of his people, Akeredolu stood firm in his resolve to protect the lives and properties of the citizens of Ondo State. Under his leadership, Amotekun became a beacon of hope, a symbol of resistance against external aggression. Akeredolu’s firm stance against marauding herdsmen demonstrated his unwavering commitment to defending the interests of his people. In the face of adversity, he remained steadfast, refusing to back down or compromise on matters of security and sovereignty.

    His courage and determination inspired us all to stand tall in the face of oppression and injustice. His administration ensured there was balance, even in the stomach infrastructure, hence his unwavering support for the agricultural sector, implementing policies and initiatives to boost food production and create employment opportunities for the people of Ondo State. His focus on agribusiness and rural development empowered farmers and revitalized rural communities, laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and prosperity.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa orders arrest of thugs destroying opponents’ billboards

    I have always known Akeredolu to be a man who foresees the future. His watchword is that youths are the nation’s tomorrow. He prioritized youth empowerment and entrepreneurship, launching various programs and initiatives aimed at equipping young people with the skills and resources they need to succeed in the modern economy. His efforts to promote innovation and creativity among the youth of Ondo State have paved the way for a brighter future for generations to come. Perhaps most notably, Akeredolu’s pivotal role in ensuring that power did not remain entrenched in the North in 2023 cannot be overstated. Through his astute leadership and strategic manoeuvring, he helped to shift the political landscape of Nigeria, opening up new possibilities for progress and development.

    Governor Akeredolu’s legacy is one of integrity, vision, and service. He came, he saw, and he conquered, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who knew him. And for me, his journey was not just political, but personal, a testament to the power of passion and dedication in the pursuit of a better tomorrow. As we bade farewell to this remarkable leader last weekend, let us honour his memory by rededicating ourselves to the ideals of justice, equality, and unity that he held so dear. The Nigerian government is implored to immortalize his legacy, to honour his unwavering commitment to the welfare and prosperity of his people. May his soul rest in peace, knowing that his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him.

    • Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye,

     London, United Kingdom.

  • President condoles with Akeredolu’s family in Owo

    President condoles with Akeredolu’s family in Owo

    The President eulogised Akeredolu, describing him as a courageous and fearless politician.

    President Tinubu was accompanied by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji, Ondo state Deputy Governor, Dr Olaide Adelami, Speaker House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, Chief of Staff to the governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa,

    He condoled with the widow, Betty, her children and other members of the bereaved family  at Akeredolu’s residence and the Olowo of Owo, Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye III in his palace.

    The president, who arrived at the Akure Airport around 11:35a.m, was received by Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    President got to Owo around 12:30p.m on board a chopper, accompanied by Aiyedatiwa, Ekiti State Governor Oyebanji and others.

    He was received by the  Deputy Governor Adelami and other top politicians.

    The widow, who led the President to Akeredolu’s burial site, said it is the wish of the family that the legacies of the former governor should be preserved.

    To Mrs. Akeredolu,  the President said: “God will be with you. Your children will do well in life. May you all end well. May God be with you and uphold you.”

    Read Also: Tinubu pays condolence visit to Akeredolu’s family in Owo

    At the palace where chiefs and leaders of Owo community trooped out to welcome the President, he said Akeredolu will be remembered by all and sundry.

    He said it was honourable to depart the world when the ovation was loudest, adding: “the space left by Akeredolu would be difficult to fill.”

    President Tinubu added:  “This sentiment should inspire us to live each day with purpose, to pursue our goals with determination, and to leave behind a legacy that will be remembered fondly by those whose lives we have touched.

    “He truly embodied courage and fearlessness, especially in his relentless pursuit for good governance. I can only describe him as a fearless fighter, his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people and his courageous nature will always be remembered.”

    Tinubu also praised the late Akeredolu’s passion for good governance.

    Oba Ogunoye thanked the President for the visit and described the late governor as a true democrat.

    The monarch also thanked Aiyedatiwa for  ensuring a befitting burial for the former Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) President.

  • We wish Akeredolu’s legacies continue, wife tells Tinubu

    We wish Akeredolu’s legacies continue, wife tells Tinubu

    • …Afenifee hails adoption of Oronsaye report

    The widow of late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has told to President Bola Tinubu that it was it was the family’s desire for Akeredolu’s legacies to continue and built upon where necessary.

    Mrs. Akeredolu spoke when Tinubu paid a condolence visit to the family in Owo, the headquarters of Owo local government area and the leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure.

    President Tinubu also visited the burial site of the late Akeredolu and the palace of Owo monarch, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, the Olowo of Owo.

    Akure, the state capital was on shutdown as party supporters thronged the streets to wear attires of their preferred candidate for the November governorship polls.

    President Tinubu, who condoled with the late Akeredolu’s family had a closed-door meeting with the former Ondo First Lady.

    She said: “As you are aware, the President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, paid his condolence visit to my family. Present at the visit are my children and extended family members.

    “On behalf of my family, I appreciate Mr. President. We understood he couldn’t attend the burial ceremony due to the dictate of Yoruba culture. He couldn’t have attended the burial of his younger brother.

    “Coming today is a big deal because we are in a better atmosphere. I also express my profound gratitude to the Southern Governors for their immense financial contributions to the burial. Most especially, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu, who singlehandedly brought Aketi’s remains back to Nigeria. We appreciate this huge show of love and we are grateful and forever indebted to him.

    “I requested that Mr. President see where Aketi has been laid to rest and he followed me. We are deeply grateful to Mr. President for coming. He’s indeed, Aketi’s brother and friend.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu visits Owo monarch, says it’s difficult to fill Akeredolu’s vacuum

    “I told Mr. President, yes, Aketi has left but he lives because he left behind legacies. It is our wish that those legacies continue and are built upon where necessary.”

    Pa Fasoranti, who hails what he termed as Tinubu’s act of courage and sagacity to adopt the Oronsanye Report as the basis to reform the Public Service, reminded him that he is the first Afenifere member to be elected president.

    Fasoranti noted that the performance of Tinubu showed that he (Tinubu) understood the full gravity of his mandate ‘which is to show the Nigerian people that a good government is possible.’

    He said it was incumbent on President Tinubu to address the issue of constitutional reforms with courage, fairness and determination.

    The Afenifere leader said the country need to seek a future where regional competitions would bring out the best in the country as it happened in the First Republic.

    “We seek therefore a true Federal Republic that would reflect fiscal federalism. If the derivation principle is good for oil, why is it not good for Value Added Tax for example? We believe a review of the 2014 National Constitutional Conference would help you in charting the course.

    “For the people of the South-West, restructuring also has a more pressing meaning. Today, Nigeria has a population of 200 million which would double in the next 25 years to 400 million.

    “However, the South-West is facing an avalanche of migration from the other zones of the country to the extent that in 25 years’ time, if the current trend continues, the South-West would be home to 50 percent of the population of Nigeria.

    “By this time the states of Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo would be home to at least 200 million people. We need to plan for this eventuality on a regional scale. We need to be prepared so that our region will not be overwhelmed by imported challenges.

    “Mr President, please also seek institutional reforms that would strengthen our federation and make Nigeria safer and more prosperous. Try and balance the budget and execute capital projects that would create more employment. We thank you for welcoming the idea of state policing.

    “We want each of the geopolitical zones to have greater responsibilities for security, food production and infrastructural development. Since the removal of the fuel subsidy, which was costing Nigeria 10 billion dollars yearly, the state governments have been receiving hefty allocations from the Federation account.

    “Mr President should persuade the governors to allow this change of fortune for the states to reflect at the grassroots so that life can be better for our people. They should not just buy rice and yams for the people.

    “They should create employment, improve education and build new infrastructures. Today, life is truly challenging for most people and the state governments have an important role to play to transform society.

    “You have done well with trying to reposition our economy and reform the Public Service. We salute your courage in tackling many issues that have remained unresolved for many years.”

    President Tinubu assured the Afenifere leaders that he knew the challenges when he took oath as President.

    “I prayed for it, I danced for it, I campaigned for it and I got it. I know the enormous of responsibility so don’t pity me Baba just sit down and relax.”

    President Tinubu said he is building structures that could not be reversed.

    Tinubu said that the structure he was trying to put in place in Nigeria economically, socially and politically would be such that it would bring Nigeria back to where it was supposed to be.

    He said the country would soon pay off the loans would be offset as soon as possible.

    On the issues of restructuring, he said he was aware of the need to restructure Nigeria but that a proper foundation must be laid before bringing restructuring in place such that if it was done in a rush without proper foundation, the restructuring might collapse very soon but it would be done.

    On the hardship Nigerians are facing, Tinubu appreciated the pains Nigerians are going through and said that very soon Nigeria would overcome it.

    Tinubu said the policies his administration was implementing would bring positive solutions to the present challenges.

    However, the visit turned campaign carnival as various groups in support of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa stormed the Akure Airport and major streets in Akure.

    Chief Press Secretary to Governor Aiyedatiwa, Ebenezer Adeniyan, had in a statement, said the President’s visit was a state affair and not a political or campaign affair.

    Adeniyan said: “Only government officials and those accredited by the government will have the opportunity to receive the president at the airport, not a campaign crowd.”

    The comments of Adeniyan followed the condemnation by a governorship aspirant, Wale Akinterinwa.

    A statement by the spokesman of Wale Akinterinwa campaign structure, Segun Ajiboye, described the alleged Aiyedatiwa’s directive as the most undemocratic, disrespectful, unreasonable and disdainful ‘attempt by any Chief executive in the annals of democracy in Nigeria.’

    It said: “Ordinarily, we would not have responded, but based on the intelligent report at our disposal that he and his supporters have perfected plans to unleash mayhem on our people both at Owo and Akure, it is necessary for us to bring this to the attention of peace-loving Nigerians.

    “The directive that no supporter or aspirants should come to the airport to welcome Mr President who is on a Private visit and not on a State visit is a directive from ignorant minds in Alagbaka. It is a tradition that whenever the President visit any State, members of his party offer him their love and support by welcoming him in their droves. It does not matter whether it is election year or not.”

  • Akeredolu: Nigeria lost fearless soldier – Tinubu

    Akeredolu: Nigeria lost fearless soldier – Tinubu

    • How communication skills helped my marriage – widow
    • Slams critics of her relationship with late husband
    • Shettima, governors, others grace funeral

    President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, described the late Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu as a fearless soldier, an unwavering advocate of the people, and an indomitable legacy of national service.

    Tinubu, who led other dignitaries to pay tributes to the deceased at his funeral in Owo, Ondo State, said Akeredolu’s courage, dedication, and unwavering stance stood him out.

    Represented by Vice President Kashim Shetimma, the President said there was no point in Akeredolu’s life where his voice shook in telling the truth.

    He said: “We are gathered here today to bid farewell to a remarkable soul.

    “We are also reminded that in this transient journey through life, we are but whispers in the wind. The parts of us that endure after we get to the end of our journey are the choices we make, and this moment is the ultimate confirmation of the noble paths trodden by our dear brother.

    “He was a vastly intelligent man whose passion has created quite a wide vacuum beyond this community. He recognised that the most pragmatic path to serving humanity is to present ourselves willingly to be chosen by the people.”

    President Tinubu commended Akeredolu’s strength of character and conviction and urged the nation to cherish the deceased’s memory and the legacy he left behind.

    Akeredolu’s successor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, said he would not forget the man who made him ‘governor even in death.’

    Aiyedatiwa stated that his former boss used the instrument of governance to intervene in different sectors of the state, including education, health services, and infrastructural development.

    “He means a lot to different people, and that is why he has been described in different words. He was a courageous leader, a fighter, and a warrior. How can we forget him so soon? It is not possible because he lives on,” Ayedatiwa said.

    “For me, I cannot forget him so soon because we share a lot together. How can I forget those political, physical and dusty roads that we have travelled together since 2012?

    “As his political associate, friend, and one-time Director-General of his campaign in Ilaje/Ese-Odo federal constituency, as Deputy Governor nominee, Deputy Governor elected, and Acting Governor whenever he travelled, and now he has made me a governor even in death. How can I forget?”

    The widow, Betty, lamented their separation but said that harnessing good communication skills helped their marriage to survive for over four decades.

    She said while the deceased was religious and wore his faith on his sleeve, she was not religious.

    Betty said she had no apologies that her husband was frustrated with her stance but that they managed to work it out by harnessing their communication skills.

    Her words: “You came to terms with my position on religion and respected my choice of pragmatism. And a peaceful home we built by respecting each other’s idiosyncrasies, supporting each other’s career pathways, and loving each other at the same time.

    “That you were courageous and fearless are now like a radio jingle on the lips of all and sundry.

    “As a partner, you were kind and playful but annoying sometimes with your jokes which became normal over the years given that trying to change you from cracking expensive jokes was an exercise in futility.

    “During our early years of marriage when we started from scratch, you made sure we didn’t lack. You took care of me and the children. With time, you became the best husband, dad, and grandpa a wife, child or grandchild would wish for.

    “We were soul mates. If there is anything like another life, I will marry you.”

    Read Also: Good communication skills helped my marriage to Akeredolu, says wife

    She also had some words for those who, according to her, did not like the love he showered on her.

    She said: “It’s me, your adorable Betty. You just left me. Just like that! It hurts. Badly it hurts. Now alone to face all manners of mockery from the so-called friends and adversaries alike.

    “Now alone. A beg o! Can an Amotekun generalissimo be a weakling? Mbanuu! It doesn’t add up nau. Haba!”

    “Not a few lashed out that you (Akeredolu) were a weakling because you loved me. I don’t think so in their homes while growing up they saw their mothers trampled upon as doormats. By the way, do they know what love is?

    “They copied the template and treated their wives as pieces of furniture that can be easily discarded as trash. In many instances, the subjugation was garnished with beatings while the community looked the other way and remained unperturbed by gender-based violence. Beaten up like punch bags.”

    In his sermon at the service, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Dr. Henry Ndukuba, asked President Tinubu to urgently resolve the economic crisis in the country.

    Dr. Ndukuba said time was not on the President’s side.

    Ndukuba said Nigerians were yet to recover from the cashless policy of Emiefele when the current hardship began.

    Represented by the Dean of the church of Nigeria, Rev. Blessing Enyindah, Ndukuba said: “May I on behalf of Nigerians pray and call on the President, Senator Bola Tinubu, to do something to reduce the hardship faced by Nigerians.

    “We have the hope he would do it because he promised us renewed hope and according to him, it is his turn, so the turn and opportunity have been given to him now. We are waiting and expecting the fulfillment of the renewed hope.

    “We plead with him to do it fast because time, that is four or eight years as the case may be, is brief and the time is running.

    “We have the hope the President will do something. He promised us Renewed Hope. We are waiting with hope. We pray he does it fast.”

    The Owo Diocese of the Anglican Church immortalised the former Ondo Governor by naming the yet-to-be-completed N300m Medical and Diagnostic Center after him.

    It said ensuring the completion of the project that was part of late Akeredolu’s dream was the only way to keep his memory alive.

    Dignitaries at the service included the  Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume; National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje; Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq; Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Ekiti State Governor Abiodun Oyebanji; Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu;  Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki; Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri and Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia.

    Also present were Enugu State Governor  Peter Mbah; Anambra State Governor  Charles Soludo; Delta State Governor  Sheriff Oborevwori; Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke; Ondo State Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami; former Governors Segun Mimiko (Ondo), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Niyi Adebayo and Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Chris Ngige (Anambra), Abdul’aziz Yari (Zamfara) former deputy governors, members of the federal and state cabinets, as well as members of the National and State Assemblies, among others.

    Akeredolu was buried at the newly consecrated burial site in Owo.

    He is the first person to be buried there since it was consecrated.

    Akeredolu died on December 27, 2023 following a prolonged illness.

  • Good communication skills helped my marriage to Akeredolu, says wife

    Good communication skills helped my marriage to Akeredolu, says wife

    The wife of late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, Betty, has said that harnessing good communication skills helped their marriage to survive over 40 decades.

    In her tribute to her late husband, the former Ondo First Lady disclosed that religion was an aspect she differed from her husband.

    She stated that while the late Akeredolu was religious and wore his faith on his sleeve, she was not religious.

    Betty said she had no apology that her husband was frustrated with her stance but that they managed to work it out by harnessing their communication skills.

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    She said: “You came to terms with my position on religion and respected my choice of pragmatism. And a peaceful home we built by respecting each other’s idiosyncrasies, supporting each other’s career pathways, and loving each other at the same time. That you were courageous and fearless is now like a radio jingle on the lips of all and sundry.

    “As a partner, you were kind and playful but annoying sometimes with your jokes which became- normal over the years given that trying to change you from cracking expensive jokes was an exercise in futility.

    “During our early years of marriage when we started from scratch, you made sure we didn’t lack. You took care of me and the children. With time, you became the best husband, dad, and grandpa, a wife, child or grandchild would wish for.

    “We were soul mates. If there is anything like another life, I will marry you.”