Biography
Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (born 21 July 1956), popularly known as Rotimi Akeredolu, is a prominent Nigerian lawyer and politician who has left a remarkable legacy in the fields of law and politics.
His notable achievements include his tenure as Governor of Ondo State, a position he assumed on February 24, 2017, until his death on December 27, 2023.
Rotimi Akeredolu left an indelible mark on Ondo State, contributing significantly to the development and governance of the state during his tenure as Governor. His passing is a great loss to the nation, as he was widely respected for his passion and unwavering dedication to public service.
Former Governor of Ondo State
Rotimi Akeredolu |
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 Rotimi Akeredolu: History ‧ Biography ‧ Photos |
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| Wiki Events & About Data | |
| Full name: | Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu |
| Stage name: | Rotimi Akeredolu |
| Born: | July 21, 1956 (age 67) |
| Deceased: | December 27, 2023, Germany |
| Place of birth: | Owo, Ondo, Nigeria |
| State of origin: | Ondo State |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Education: | Obafemi Awolowo University |
| Height: | 1.64 minutes |
| Parents: | Evangelist Grace B. Akeredolu, Pastor J. Ola Akeredolu |
| Siblings: | Do not have |
| Couple: | Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu (m. 1981-2023) |
| Girlfriend • Partner: | Do not have |
| The children: | Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Jr., Teniola Akeredolu, Yejide Runsewe, Babajide Akeredolu |
| Job: | Politician • Lawyer |
| Net worth: | 20 million US dollars |
Early life and education
Rotimi Akeredolu, a prominent Nigerian politician, was born on July 21, 1956 in Owo, Ondo State. His father, Pastor J. Ola Akeredolu, was a priest, while his mother, Evangelist Grace B. Akeredolu, was known for her strong Christian faith.
Although there is no information about his siblings in the media, it is worth noting that Rotimi Akeredolu attended higher education in University of Ife (now known as Obafemi Awolowo University), where he completed his law degree in 1977.
Career
From 1997 to 1999, Rotimi Akeredolu served as Attorney General of Ondo State, achieving the title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria during this tenure. He also served as Chairman of the Legal Aid Council from 2005 to 2006.
In November 2009, Akeredolu faced corruption charges brought by members of the Bar Association. However, after a thorough review, the National Executive Council of the Nigerian Bar Association dismissed the charges.
Advocating electoral reforms and improved justice systems, Rotimi Akeredolu stressed the pivotal role these changes play in achieving free and fair elections in Nigeria. He stressed the importance of citizens taking practical steps to ensure the integrity of their votes.
Akeredolu’s view that President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua should temporarily transfer power to Vice President Goodluck Jonathan during his illness has received the support of the Nigerian Bar Association, which recognizes him as their authorized spokesperson.
In 2012, as President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Rotimi Akeredolu had the honour of naming the association’s new secretariat in Abuja, in recognition of his immense contributions to the organization.
His political journey continued, and on 27 November 2016, Akeredolu won the Ondo State gubernatorial election, defeating his opponents Olusola Oke and Eyitayo Jegede. His inauguration as Governor of Ondo State took place on 24 February 2017 in Akure.
In the 2020 Ondo State Governorship election, Rotimi Akeredolu won 15 out of the 18 local governments, defeating candidates like Olusola Oke, DI Kekemeke, Jimi Odimayo, Segun Abraham, among others, in the APC primaries. His running mate in the election was Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who was chosen after a tussle with his deputy Agboola Ajayi.
Social media
- Instagram handle: Arakunrin Akeredolu Aketi (@rotimiaketi)
- Twitter name: Arakunrin Akeredolu (@RotimiAkeredolu)
Personal life
Rotimi Akeredolu and Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu have celebrated a harmonious marriage spanning over four decades, a testament to their strong commitment and strong bond. They affectionately refer to each other as lifelong partners, with Betty being Akeredolu’s unwavering supporter throughout their journey together.
Their love story blossomed into a family of four, which includes two sons, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Jr. and Babajide Akeredolu and two daughters, Yejide Runsewe and Dr. Teniola Akeredolu.
However, on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, the sad news of the passing of Former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State emerged. He peacefully departed this world at the age of 67 after a courageous battle with prostate cancer.
The official cause of his death was said to be complications arising from his prolonged battle with the challenging disease. The passing of Governor Akeredolu has left a void in the hearts of those who admired and respected him for his dedicated leadership in Ondo State and his exemplary public service.
Net worth
Rotimi Akeredolu, a respected lawyer and politician from Nigeria, is said to have amassed a considerable fortune of over $20 million. Unfortunately, on December 27, 2023, Governor Akeredolu passed away at the age of 67 after a long and arduous battle with leukemia.
