Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Acting Governor of Ondo State, has been officially sworn in as the state’s governor following the unfortunate passing of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Cocoa Conference Hall in Akure, marked Aiyedatiwa’s acceptance of the responsibility to continue Akeredolu’s legacies of good governance. In his remarks, Aiyedatiwa pledged to prioritize the welfare of the people and uphold the achievements initiated by his late predecessor.
The inauguration follows Akeredolu’s death and a year-long journey for Aiyedatiwa amid political challenges and health issues faced by the late governor.
Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead and acknowledged the burden of continuing the work started by Akeredolu.
He assured the people of Ondo State of continued progress and emphasized placing their welfare as a topmost priority.
The ceremony was attended by various judges, government officials, including the secretary to the state government, members of the state cabinet, the state All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman, and members of the state house of assembly.
The political landscape in Ondo State saw controversy in recent months, with activists and constitutional lawyers urging Akeredolu to transmit power to Aiyedatiwa in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.
Aiyedatiwa survived impeachment attempts and opposition, ultimately assuming the role of governor on December 13, 2023, as Akeredolu underwent medical treatment abroad.
Unfortunately, Akeredolu, 67, succumbed to complications from prostate cancer on December 27, 2023.
