Akeredolu’s deputy, Ayedatiwa sworn-in as Ondo State Governor

Promises to be fair to all

By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

The acting Governor of Ondo State, Mr Lucky Ayedatiwa has been sworn in as the substantive Governor of the state.
This development was sequel to the death of the State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwatotimi Akeredolu in the early hours of Wednesday in Germany.
Ayedatiwa was sworn-in by the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola on Wednesday evening as the 19th governor of the state.
Aiyedatiwa, assumed the position of Governor following the death of Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu, early on Wednesday morning after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer and leukemia.
The swearing in ceremony, took place at 5:18p.m. at the Cocoa conference hall of the Governors Office, in Alagbaka, Akure, the state capital.
In his acceptance speech after the swearing in ceremony, the new Governor of Ondo State said he was sad over the death of his principal.
According to him, “It is with heavy heart that I accept this onerous responsibility of taking over the reins of governance and affairs of our state following the unfortunate loss and passing of our beloved Governor, leader and dear boss, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN.
“The death of our governor is indeed a devastating shock to us all, as we have all been praying earnestly for his quick recovery and subsequent safe return to Ondo State, having embarked on another medical leave on Wednesday, 13th December, 2023”, he said.
Ayedatiwa assured the people of Ondo State that under his watch, his administration shall continue to advance the welfare of the people.
His words, “We shall always place the people first in every decision we take.
“It is my prayer, once more, that God Almighty shall grant the family and the people of Ondo State the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa further declared three days of mourning in the state and ordered that the national flag in all establishments in the state should fly at half mast.