By Precious Oluwole

As today marks the first year anniversary of the demise of the former Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, the State Government, organised a memorial anniversary lecture series in his honour.

The event with the theme “Security Sector Reform In Promoting Peace, Stability And Development: The Ondo State Example, was held at the Dome on Friday.

In his remarks, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa noted that Late Akeredolu would be remembered for his commitment to the welfare and development of the State.

“We must celebrate him for his selfless service, visionary leadership and infectious passion for progress which continue to inspire us. Arakunrin Akeredolu was that courageous leader who spoke truth to power and fought for the advancement of democracy and the Rule of Law in our country. His leadership was not only marked by integrity, transparency and a deep understanding of the needs of our people, Governor Akeredolu also implemented various initiatives geared towards transforming Ondo State.

“His administration’s landmark achievements are profound in the area of infrastructural development, education, healthcare, youth empowerment and entrepreneurship, economic growth and development. Arakunrin Akeredolu was a veteran in his profound commitment to security of lives and property of all residents of the Sunshine State. We must continue to appreciate his sacrifices and contributions towards the establishment of the Western Security Network code-named, Amotekun Corps.

“He fought gallantly alongside his colleague governors in the Southwest to establish the home-grown security outfit that has become a reference point in Nigeria. Amotekun Corps continues to receive both local and international accolades for its huge presence and efficacy in security management.

“Following in the footsteps of the late Arakunrin Akeredolu, we have not only prioritised the welfare of the people, we have also clearly initiated policies and programmes which have direct impacts on their lives.

“We remain committed to the values of transparency, accountability and inclusivity. While reflecting on my one year in office, I feel proud of the progress we have made in restoring the confidence of the people and in building upon the foundation laid by our late Governor.

“We continue to work tirelessly to address the myriads of challenges facing our State; from infrastructural development to economic growth and social welfare. We have made significant strides in agriculture and food security, rural and urban roads constructions.

Governor Aiyedatiwa appreciated the presence of Femi Falana and Basorun Seinde Arogbofa as the guest speaker and Chairman of the occasion respectively.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman, Ondo State SUBEB , Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan acknowledged the efforts of Late Akeredolu in promoting peace and security in the State, adding that all his legacies are known to the people.

He described Late Akeredolu as a straightforward man and someone who holds no grudges.

He added that the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa will project the legacies of Late Akeredolu and ensure that the programmes and polices of his predecessor are completed.

In his goodwill message, an Afenifere leader, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa commended the late Governor’s efforts in maintaining peace and orderliness in the State, appreciating Aiyedatiwa for organizing this kind of lecture to honour his Boss as a way of respect for him.

In his lecture, the guest speaker, Femi Falana, SAN, Femi Falana described Late Akeredolu as a very courageous man, a lover of peace.

He urged the government at all levels to find lasting solutions to social security by confronting the spate of unemployment and poverty to surmount the insecurity challenges being experienced in the country

He emphasized the importance of security sector reform in promoting peace, stability, and development in Nigeria.

He acknowledged the virtues of Late Akeredolu whom he said created Amotekun corp in the south west to maintain law and order, protect citizens and further promote economic development which has earned the state the most peaceful, in the country.

Falana added that the greatest tribute for Akeredolu is the approval of state police to be enacted in all the 36 states of Nigeria which he was vocal about throughout his tenure as governor.

“Continue to provide dividends of democracy to the people”, Falana concluded.

In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, State Chairman of APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, represented by Hon. Ololade Gbedudu, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, among others top government officials.