Lucky Aiyedatiwa has been sworn in as the Governor of Ondo State on Wednesday, 27th December 2023, following the announcement of the unfortunate passing of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu in Germany, on the same day.
Akeredolu, aged 67, passed away on December 27, 2023, after battling prostate cancer and had previously transferred power to Aiyedatiwa on December 13, 2023, before his final medical trip overseas.
The swearing-in took place at the Cocoa Conference Hall in Akure, administered by Chief Judge Justice Olusegun Odusola.
In his speech Aiyedatiwa mourned the loss of his predecessor, Akerdolu
Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ondo State Governor
It is with a heavy heart that I accept this honorous responsibility of taking over the reins of governance and affairs of our state after the unfortunate loss and passing of our beloved governor and leader and my dear principal Arakurin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu.
He called for Unity in the state and pledged to to sustain Akeredolu’s legacy.
“Today’s event has placed a burden on all of us to stay together as one because we have to onerous responsibility to continue to sustain the legacies of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, which was good governance.
“We now have the responsibility to complete them. It is necessary for us to acknowledge with pride, the wonderful achievements and legacies of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN, CON.”
Aiyedatiwa assured the indigenes of the state of continued progress as well as making their welfare his topmost priority.
Aiyedatiwa also praised Akeredoulu for initiating some landmark projects which were at different stages of completion.
The event was attended by judges, top government officials, APC members, and state assembly representatives.
Aiyedatiwa’s journey to becoming governor spanned a year, marked by challenges occasioned my Akerdolu’s health issues.
He managed to thwart an impeachment attempt orchestrated by Akeredolu’s allies in the Ondo State House of Assembly and faced strong opposition from supporters of his late predecessor.
Story: Ihuoma Ukeje