…….Mourns Akeredolu, laments his absence at swearing-in
By Tonia Okereke
Lucky Aiyedatiwa has been sworn-in as the Governor of Ondo State, for a second term in office.
Aiyedatiwa is commencing his first full four-year term following the death of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu in December 2023.
The inauguration ceremony took place on Monday at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure, the state capital, two months after Aiyedatiwa won the governorship election under the banner of the All Progressives Congress.
Aiyedatiwa took his oath of office as the seventh Ondo State governor just after his running mate Olayide Adelami.
The governor thereafter rode in an open van around the complex, acknowledging cheers from supporters.
……………Mourns Akeredolu, laments his absence at swearing-in
Speaking during his inaugural speech after being sworn in as the 7th governor of Ondo State, Aiyedatiwa paid tribute to Akeredolu’s visionary leadership and tireless efforts in developing the state.
He said, “Permit me to express special gratitude to my immediate predecessor, our visionary leader, the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, who worked tirelessly to develop our state for about seven years before he took a glorious bow to join the Saints Triumphant.
“We must not forget this courageous and personable leader who literally emptied himself in the service of Ondo State and Nigeria. His legacy continues to inspire us to build upon the foundations he laid.”
He lamented that Akeredolu was not alive to witness the fulfillment of what he predicted.
He added, “I am particularly indebted to him for choosing me as his Deputy and for his public and undisguised prophetic declaration at about this time, on this same podium, four years ago. That declaration must be appreciated for setting the tone for me as his successor to the office of Governor.”
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