By Damilare Adeleye
The family of the late Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has faulted the decision of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to name an uncompleted judicial complex after his late predecessor, describing the move as “premature and insincere.”
The family, in a statement signed by Babajide Akeredolu on their behalf, expressed displeasure over what they termed the politicisation of the late governor’s legacy.
While commending the groundbreaking of the judicial complex, which was a significant project initiated by Akeredolu, the family noted that genuine honour could only be achieved by completing the initiative.
The statement read, “The decision to name an uncompleted project after our late father is premature. The best way to honour him is to complete and ensure the functionality of the projects he started.”
The family also noted a clash in scheduling between the state government’s Leadership Lecture Series and the family’s remembrance programme in Owo.
They urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to demonstrate sincerity in preserving Akeredolu’s legacy by prioritising ongoing developmental efforts rather than engaging in symbolic gestures.
Babajide Akeredolu also criticised the Ondo State government for organising a remembrance event for the late Governor Akeredolu without consulting or inviting the family, calling the move “discourteous and disrespectful.”
Meanwhile, the family explained several key projects initiated by the late governor that remain unfinished or neglected: “Preliminary studies for critical infrastructure projects completed under Akeredolu’s administration have stalled.
“A flagship project, originally slated for completion in 18 months, is now progressing at a snail’s pace.“Roads behind SIB and Ijoka Road have been abandoned, causing significant hardship for residents.“Oda Road is in a poor state compared to the quality of projects executed during Akeredolu’s tenure.”
The family also condemned the state government for irregular salary payments, burdensome taxes, and the failure to implement a fair minimum wage.
They accused Governor Aiyedatiwa of sidelining individuals linked to the late governor and called for an end to divisive practices.
However, they urged the governor to adopt his predecessor’s courageous and principled approach to leadership.
Meanwhile, despite their grievances, the family expressed gratitude to the Deputy Governor for representing the state at the remembrance event in the governor’s absence.
They advised Governor Aiyedatiwa to prioritise governance over politics, focus on impactful leadership, and work toward leaving a meaningful legacy.Reaffirming their commitment to preserving Akeredolu’s legacy, the family promised to continue advocating for accountability and speaking truth to power.
“True loyalty and respect for the late governor should be demonstrated through action, not empty gestures or political theatrics,” he added.
