We celebrate a historic occasion—the inauguration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the 7th democratically elected governor of Ondo State. It fills my heart with immense joy and fulfillment that this monumental event is taking place during my tenure as the Chairman of the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). This is a moment that marks a significant milestone in the political landscape of our beloved Ondo State, as it is the very first time in our history that a transition from one governor to another under the same party is occurring.
As we reflect on the trajectory of governance in Ondo State since the inception of democratic rule, we cannot overlook the challenges and obstacles that previous administrations faced. No party has successfully transitioned from one member to another, despite the efforts and popularity of their leaders. Chief Adekunle Ajayi of the Unity Party of Nigeria could not effectuate this transition, even with the immense followership of the revered Pa Awolowo’s UPN party. The late Chief Bamidele Olomiluwa’s tenure SDP was abruptly cut short by the machinations of the military junta. Baba Peace, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, despite his overwhelming victory, found his party’s AD unable to secure a second term. Similarly, Chief Olusegun Agagu of the PDP experienced the same fate when the Labour Party, under the leadership of Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, took the reins of governance.
This has been the trajectory of our governorship elections until the significant leadership of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, whose dedication to the progressives ideals of our party laid a strong foundation for the continuity we witness today. His commitment to the party and the people of Ondo State has been instrumental in facilitating the emergence of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa as the first governor in our history to be elected by the same party in succession.
As a political party, we are profoundly humbled by this epoch-making achievement, especially considering the unprecedented victory we recorded in the recent governorship election, winning all 18 local government areas in the state and securing overwhelming victory in 202 out of 203 wards. This is a testament to the trust and confidence the people of Ondo State have in our party and the vision we represent.
However, the task ahead is daunting, and we recognize that we are entering a challenging time. It is imperative that we justify the immense responsibility bestowed upon Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa with the mandate given to him. We stand firmly with him on this journey, committed to ensuring that he succeeds in this assignment over the next four years. Our collective efforts will be aimed at securing another overwhelming victory for our great party in the next election cycle.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on his swearing-in as the 7th democratically elected governor of Ondo State. As a political party, we pledge to provide him with all necessary support and to play an advisory role whenever needed for his overall success. His success is intrinsically linked to the continuous support for our party by the masses and all well-wishers in our sunshine state.
As the ruling party in the state, we affirm our unwavering belief in Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as a capable leader who will take Ondo State to greater heights and the Eldorado we all envision. As it is written in the Holy Bible, in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” With this divine promise, we are confident that under his stewardship, Ondo State will flourish and shine brighter than ever before.
e-Signed
Engr. Ade Adetimehin
Chairman,APC Ondo State.
Post a Comment