Princess Catherine Odu Remembers Aketi: A Phenomenal Leader Whose Legacy Endures

Two years after the passing of the former Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN (fondly known as Aketi), the former Secretary to the Government of Ondo State, Princess (Barr.) Catherine Oladunni Odu, has paid a glowing tribute to the late statesman, describing him as a phenomenal leader whose courage, integrity, and commitment to public service continue to define exemplary leadership in Ondo State.

Princess Odu noted that despite the passage of time, the impact of Akeredolu’s leadership remains deeply felt, stating that his memory is as vivid today as it was during his lifetime. She recalled that the word phenomenal best captures his character, a description she has consistently used since their days of service together as Commissioners in the state.

Reflecting on his tenure as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice during the military era, Princess Odu highlighted three core attributes that distinguished Akeredolu: his fearless disposition in speaking truth to power, his willingness to stand firm—even in isolation—when justice demanded it, and his unwavering dedication to protecting the interests of the people.

According to her, Akeredolu demonstrated rare courage and moral clarity, often engaging authority when necessary, not out of defiance, but out of conviction and a deep sense of responsibility. She emphasized that his interventions, though sometimes uncomfortable, were always sincere, people-centered, and guided by conscience rather than personal ambition.

Princess Odu observed that these same values defined Akeredolu’s administration as Governor of Ondo State. She described him as a leader whose principles remained constant, unaffected by power or position, and whose governance was driven by purpose, integrity, and service to the people.

She stated that his tenure as governor was marked by bold decision-making, people-focused policies, and enduring developmental legacies, stressing that his contributions to the state “remain indelible and impossible to erase.”

On a personal note, Princess Odu expressed profound gratitude to the late governor for the confidence he reposed in her by appointing her to serve in key capacities, including making history by appointing her as the first female Secretary to the Government of Ondo State. She described him as a leader who empowered his appointees, trusted their competence, and encouraged excellence.

She further recalled that Akeredolu related with his team more as a mentor and ally than a distant superior, a leadership style that fostered loyalty, unity, and enduring respect across political and professional lines.

Princess Odu concluded by thanking God for the impactful life of Arakunrin Akeredolu and for his invaluable service to Ondo State and humanity.

“Rest on, phenomenal Aketi. Your legacy lives on,” she said.

— Princess (Barr.) Catherine Oladunni Odu

First Female Secretary to the Government of Ondo State