Gov Aiyedatiwa Declares “I Was Once Embattled Deputy Governor,” Thanks Ondo Elders For Intervention

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has expressed appreciation to the elders of the State for the role they played in resolving the recent political crisis in the state.

Particularly, he thanked the elders under the leadership of, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, whose formal petition to President Bola Tinubu attracted the president’s intervention, which eventually hastened the resolution of the recent political crisis that rocked the State.

He expressed the appreciation during a visit to Fasoranti in his Akure residence, where he also promised to continue the legacy of his predecessor, the departed Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

The Governor told the elders: “I extend my heartfelt greetings to Chief Reuben Fasoranti and the distinguished elders present. Your wisdom and guidance have been invaluable to our state’s stability.

“In the past, during challenging times, your intervention, particularly the letter you wrote to President Bola Tinubu advocating constitutional adherence, restored peace to our state. Your counsel has been instrumental.”

Formally, he conveyed the news of the passage of the former governor to Fasoranti and the elders saying: “I regretfully inform you of the passing of our departed Governor.

“It has been eight days since his passing. In such circumstances, it is crucial to avoid a vacuum in leadership, I had to step in, I appreciate you for all you did during my tenure as an embattled deputy governor. Consequently, I have assumed the position of the new Governor.”

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Aiyedatiwa assured the gathering of his commitment to continuing the departed Governor’s vision, saying: “We pledge to carry forward the departed Governor’s aspirations, ensuring the completion of ongoing projects and the realization of initiatives planned for the state.”

Also, he reiterated his dedication to serving the people of Ondo State while upholding Akeredolu’s legacy.

Aiyedatiwa assured the elders of his administration’s dedication to addressing infrastructure needs, affirming the commitment to furthering development across the state.

Thereafter, Fasoranti offered blessings and prayers for the success of the Governor’s tenure.

He prayed: “May divine guidance and wisdom accompany you in this significant phase of leadership. I pray for success and prosperity in your administration.”

In his own speech, the Olu of Ilu Abo; who was a former Secretary to the Federal Government, Oba Olu Falae, hammered the urgency of preserving the Yoruba language from the brink of extinction.

He said: “We must take action to safeguard our Yoruba language from the threat of extinction, starting from primary to secondary education levels.”