Korede Abdullah in Lagos
A new governor of Ondo state, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has officially commenced his first full four-year term, following his inauguration on Monday at the state capital, Akure.
The event was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, party leaders, and supporters.
Aiyedatiwa took the oath of office at 12:59 p.m., moments after his deputy, Olayide Adelami, was sworn in. The Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice A. O. Odusola, administered the oath, sealing Aiyedatiwa’s mandate as the state’s executive leader.
In his inaugural address, Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the people of Ondo State for their trust and reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises. He emphasized key priorities such as infrastructural development, economic growth, job creation, and security enhancement across the state.
Aiyedatiwa’s victory in the governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) reaffirms the party’s stronghold in the state. Party leaders, including the national chairman of APC and several governors, attended the event, pledging their support for Aiyedatiwa’s administration.
Aiyedatiwa faces several governance challenges, including addressing infrastructural deficits, revitalizing the state’s economy, and ensuring political stability.
He also inherits ongoing concerns over workers’ welfare and insecurity, which have been critical issues in Ondo State’s recent political landscape.
Aiyedatiwa won the November 16, 2024, governorship election with over 366,000 votes, defeating his main rival, Hon. Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party, who secured 117,000 votes.
