Ondo State’s newly sworn-in Governor, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has vowed to build on the enduring legacy of his late predecessor, the visionary Rotimi Akeredolu, who passed away before witnessing his successor’s historic inauguration.
Aiyedatiwa, who assumed office alongside his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, at a ceremony held at the Akure Stadium, expressed heartfelt sorrow that Akeredolu, a leader he deeply admired, was not present to witness the momentous occasion.
In his inaugural address on Monday, Governor Aiyedatiwa, who had served as Akeredolu’s deputy, delivered a tribute to the late governor’s selfless contributions to the state’s development.
Aiyedatiwa also recalled Akeredolu’s prophetic words at his second-term inauguration, where the late governor had publicly endorsed Aiyedatiwa as his successor.
“I am particularly indebted to him for choosing me as his deputy and for his public and undisguised prophetic declaration at this very podium four years ago. I must say that I am deeply pained that this great leader, who saw tomorrow, is not here with us to witness this momentous occasion,” he added, his voice tinged with emotion.
While paying homage to Akeredolu’s transformative governance, Aiyedatiwa took time to recognise the efforts of the state’s founding fathers and past governors.
He acknowledged their sacrifices, noting that their vision had laid the groundwork for Ondo’s current progress.
The governor, who has promised to run an inclusive administration, urged all political factions in the state to put aside partisan divides and work collectively for the common good.
“We have no need for unnecessary political distractions that cost us time, resources, and energy. These should instead be redirected for the accelerated development of our state. There is room enough for all,” Aiyedatiwa said, extending an olive branch to opposition parties.
Aiyedatiwa also revealed his administration’s key policy areas, including agriculture, healthcare, revenue generation, urban renewal, rural road construction, education, and employment.
“We have positively impacted the state in these sectors, and we assure you that the overwhelming renewed mandate you have given us has placed a greater responsibility on us. We promise never to rest on our oars,” he vowed.
The inauguration ceremony, which was attended by key political figures such as the APC National Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, was a moment of high political significance for Ondo State.
President Bola Tinubu, along with several governors across Nigeria, congratulated the newly sworn-in Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on his successful inauguration for a fresh term.
In his congratulatory message, President Tinubu commended Aiyedatiwa for his resounding victory in the November 2024 governorship election, which he described as a testament to the governor’s popularity and the trust the people of Ondo State have placed in his leadership.
Tinubu encouraged Aiyedatiwa to work towards fostering economic growth, improving security, and enhancing infrastructure development in the state, while building on the foundation laid by his predecessor, the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.
Also, governors across the country, including Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, and Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, extended their congratulations to Aiyedatiwa, urging him to embrace unity and inclusivity in his administration.
They expressed confidence in his ability to continue driving progress in Ondo State.
Governor Oyebanji of Ekiti emphasised the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, including political opponents, to ensure that Aiyedatiwa’s tenure will be successful and beneficial to all citizens of Ondo State.
