Lucky Aiyedatiwa Inaugurated as Ondo Governor, Vows to Prioritize Development, Welfare

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Lucky Aiyedatiwa has officially been sworn in as the governor of Ondo State, marking the start of his first full four-year term. He assumed office following the death of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu in 2023. The inauguration ceremony took place on Monday at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure, the state capital, two months after Aiyedatiwa secured victory in the governorship election under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Aiyedatiwa took his oath of office shortly after his running mate, Olayide Adelami, at approximately 12:59 pm. Following the ceremony, the governor rode in an open van around the complex, waving to cheering supporters.

In his inaugural address, Aiyedatiwa pledged to lead with dedication and prioritize the welfare of the people, particularly the most vulnerable. He also outlined plans to boost the state’s economy and attract investments.

“We assure you that the overwhelming mandate you have given us places a significant responsibility on our shoulders, and we promise not to rest on our oars. My deputy and I solemnly pledge to govern with the fear of God and unwavering commitment to the progress of Ondo State. We will prioritize the welfare of our people, especially the poor, the sick, and the marginalized,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa emphasized his administration’s focus on economic development, stating, “In the next four years, we will collaborate with investors and development partners to realize the potential of Port Ondo. We will also facilitate the exploration of our vast bitumen deposits for local use and export, generating substantial revenue for the state.”

The event was attended by prominent figures, including APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former Osun State Governor Bisi Akande, former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, Minister of Youth Ayodele Olawande, and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, among others.

Aiyedatiwa’s journey to the governorship was marked by a competitive race against Agboola Ajayi, a former deputy governor who contested on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Aiyedatiwa secured a landslide victory in the November 16, 2024, election, polling 366,781 votes compared to Ajayi’s 117,845 votes. The APC candidate won all 18 local government areas, solidifying his mandate.

Aiyedatiwa initially assumed office as governor on December 27, 2023, following Akeredolu’s death. Akeredolu, who had been battling illness, had earlier transferred power to Aiyedatiwa. The new governor subsequently won the APC’s ticket for the 2024 election, defeating 17 other candidates, including Ajayi, who had served as Akeredolu’s deputy during his first term.

The inauguration marks the completion of the succession process in Ondo State, with Aiyedatiwa set to lead the state for the next four years.