Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, former governor of Ondo State has visited the governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa at the presidential lodge of the Government House, Akure, to commiserate with the government and people of the state on the demise of Arakunrin Odunayo Oluwarotimi Akeredolu who died on the 27th of December after a protracted illness.
The former governor, who came with his friends, past cabinet members and political associates across the three Senatorial Districts of Ondo State re-echoed the years of solid friendship between him and his late friend. He however offered prayers for the state and the family he left behind.
Mimiko said, “Governance in the circumstance with which you have found yourself is very challenging. The good Lord will stand by you at all times. We will continue to remember the Akeredolu family in our prayers. Thank you for receiving us.”
In his reaction, Aiyedatiwa thanked the former governor for demonstrating that he is a leader and a statesman who has governed Ondo State and knows what it means to serve.
“You are here today not just because you are past governor but because he was your friend. Thank you for standing by us as a leader and statesman. It is a blessing to have you. Your wealth of experience is huge.”
The governor appreciated the people of Ondo State for their prayers as the state navigates through this difficult time while reiterating that the legacies of Aketi remain indelible.
“Only God can explain what had happened. Aketi lives on because of the legacies he has left behind. He pursued his conviction with great courage. He stood for the truth.”
The governor promised to continue where Akeredolu stopped, to ensure that his legacies remain while imploring Mimiko to engage him constructively in order to engender good governance in Ondo State.
On the entourage of the former governor were Hon. Joseph Akinlaja, a former Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Kola Ademujimi, former chief of staff, Hon. Dayo Awude, Engr. Gboye Adegbenro, Hon. Taye Afilaka and others who were received by the Members of the Executive council in attendance, among who were Commissioner for Regional Planning, Prince Boye Ologbese, Commissioner for Justice, Sir Charles Titiloye, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Mrs Olubunmi Oshadahun and others.