• Tasks appointees to hit the ground running, warns against undue pressure
By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday inaugurated the second batch of Commissioners into the State Executive Council, restating his administration’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability and effective service delivery.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome) in Akure, marked what the Governor described as a major milestone in the journey towards building a more prosperous and people-centred Ondo State.
Addressing the new appointees, Aiyedatiwa charged them to “hit the ground running,” stressing that the expectations of the people were high and nothing short of excellence would be accepted.
“The people of Ondo State expect nothing but the best from us, having entrusted us with an overwhelming mandate, and we must strive to deliver on all our electioneering promises,” he said.
Justifying the delay in the appointments, the Governor noted it was a deliberate strategy rooted in his administration’s belief in steady and purposeful governance.
“Within the first 100 days of our administration, we have proven that slow and steady wins the race,” he declared.
Congratulating the new Commissioners, Aiyedatiwa described them as individuals with “unassailable qualifications, impeccable track records and commitment to public service.”
He urged them to operate with integrity and align their efforts with the administration’s 7-point agenda, OUR EASE, which prioritises Economic Development, Food Security, Education, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Security, Youth Empowerment and Social Welfare.
The Governor warned family members and political associates of the appointees against putting pressure on them for personal or parochial benefits, insisting that public service must be driven by merit and public interest.
He also highlighted his administration’s strides in infrastructural development, social welfare, and security.
Notably, he referenced the recent legislative move to introduce stiffer penalties, including the death sentence, for kidnappers and abductors as a sign of the government’s resolve to curb criminality.
While reassuring those yet to be appointed, Aiyedatiwa said more opportunities would arise for qualified individuals to contribute to the development of the State.
Earlier, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, in his welcome address, lauded the Governor’s inclusive approach to governance, describing the appointments as a strategic move to deepen people-oriented leadership.
Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in Commissioners, Mr Omoyofunmi Segun thanked the Governor for the trust reposed in them, pledging to work with dedication and uphold the core values of the administration.
The event was graced by dignitaries including the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Wife of the Governor, Mrs Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omajuwa; Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; APC State Chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin; member of the House of Representatives, Hon Abiola Makinde; former House of Reps member, Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye; traditional rulers, political leaders, labour and religious leaders, among other eminent personalities.
