Rotimi Akeredolu, Shehu Kangiwa… 4 Nigerian state governors who died while in office
The legacies of four Nigerian politicians who met tragic ends continue to shape the political landscape of the country. From Shehu Kangiwa to Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, their contributions and untimely deaths left a lasting impact on their respective states and the nation as a whole.
Here is the narrative of four state governors who met their untimely demise while in office in the history of Nigeria’s politics.
Shehu Kangiwa
The ‘Smiling Governor’ of Sokoto State, Shehu Kangiwa, met his end in a polo accident in January 1982. His deputy, Garba Nadama, assumed office until a military coup in November 1983.
Kangiwa’s legacy lives on through The Shehu Kangiwa Cup sponsored by the Sokoto State Government.
Patrick Yakowa
Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, who served as governor of Kaduna State from 2010 to 2012, met a tragic end in a helicopter crash in Ogbia Creek, Bayelsa State.
Sworn in as governor in 2010, he succeeded Namadi Sambo, who had become the vice president.
Mamman Bello Ali
Representing Yobe South Senatorial District and chairing the senate committee on public account, Mamman Bello Ali transitioned from politics to become the governor of Yobe in 2007.
However, he succumbed to leukemia in a Florida hospital in 2009.
Oluwarotimi Akeredolu
Known as Aketi, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former president of the Nigerian Bar Association, held various roles, including ex-Attorney General of Ondo State.
Despite his second term as governor, he tragically passed away on 27th of December 2023 while serving as the Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum.
Although their lives were cut short, the influence and impact of Shehu Kangiwa, Patrick Yakowa, Mamman Bello Ali, and Oluwarotimi Akeredolu continue to be felt in Nigerian politics.
READ ALSO: Rotimi Akeredolu dies… 10 things to know about Ondo governor
Their legacies live on through various initiatives and honors, reminding Nigerians of the leaders they were and the potential they had to bring about positive change.
