The newly sworn-in Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has expressed deep sorrow that his predecessor, the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, was not alive to witness his swearing-in ceremony.
Speaking during his inaugural speech after being sworn in as the 7th governor of Ondo State, Aiyedatiwa paid tribute to Akeredolu’s visionary leadership and tireless efforts in developing the state.
He said, ‘Permit me to express special gratitude to my immediate predecessor, our visionary leader, the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, who worked tirelessly to develop our state for about seven years before he took a glorious bow to join the Saints Triumphant.
‘We must not forget this courageous and personable leader who literally emptied himself in the service of Ondo State and Nigeria. His legacy continues to inspire us to build upon the foundations he laid.’
Aiyedatiwa acknowledged that Akeredolu’s public and prophetic declaration at the inauguration ceremony four years ago, where he was sworn in for a second term, set the tone for his eventual emergence as governor.
He lamented that Akeredolu was not alive to witness the fulfillment of what he had foretold.
He added, ‘I am particularly indebted to him for choosing me as his Deputy and for his public and undisguised prophetic declaration at about this time, on this same podium, four years ago. That declaration must be appreciated for setting the tone for me as his successor to the office of Governor.’
‘I must say that I am deeply pained that this great leader who saw tomorrow is not here with us to witness and savor this auspicious occasion, which marks the fulfillment of what God spoke through him.
‘May the gentle soul of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, continue to rest in peace (Amen).’
Aiyedatiwa described the moment as a crucial point in the state’s history, reflecting on the struggles of the past, the sacrifices of heroes and the resilience of the people.
‘This moment is very pivotal in our history as a people. It reminds us of the struggles of our past, the sacrifices of our heroes, and the resilience of our people,’ he noted.
He also paid tribute to the founding fathers and former governors of the state for their contributions to its growth and development over the past 49 years.
‘In celebrating this significant milestone, I pay glowing tributes to all the founding fathers and former governors of our great state, who have contributed immensely to her growth and development over the past 49 years.
‘Their selfless service, vision, and leadership have laid the groundwork for the progress we enjoy today.’
