Today, Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, will take the oath of office for a 2nd term. His deputy-elect,Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa will also be sworn-in. It’s a day of joy. The journey of redemption which started this day four years ago has been modestly, rewarding and fulfilling. It has benefited, immensely, the good people of Ondo State.
“Our journey to redemption will not be without stress and undulating curves, sometimes we may trip and slip but we will focus on the journey. We will never stop and in the end we will reach our goal”
The above were the words of Arakunrin Akeredolu while taking the Oath of office at the Akure township stadium on the 24th February, 2017. Four years gone and the evidence of the passion and commitment of Arakunrin Akeredolu abound across the state.
Eyes have seen. Ears have heard and with our hands, we have touched , felt and enjoyed the dividend of good governance across the nooks and crannies of Ondo state. The courage, character and competence which Governor Akeredolu has displayed to record these impactful achievement are endearing.
Blunt to a fault, he doesn’t tell lies. He speaks his mind no matter whose ox is gored. Tenacious. Bold and focus. He has displayed rare qualities of a leader for all season. Principled, yet jovial and lively. Governor Akeredolu exudes confidence even in the face of adversity. His passion for service is unparalleled. Yes! He’s a good manager of resources.
Arakunrin Akeredolu’s drive to change the status of Ondo state from a “civil Servant” toga to an industrialized state has moved from a mere desire into a reality. The Ondo/Linyi industrial hub in Ore attests to this fact.
As Arakunrin Akeredolu takes the Oath of Office for his 2nd Term in the saddle today, we are celebrating the completion of four years of purposeful leadership. We are celebrating numerous achievement in the face of dwindling economy.
The flyover bridge in Ore christened “The Redemption Bridge”, the construction of Oke-Alabojuto road and the first of its kind road dualization in Akokoland, in Ikare-Akoko, construction of roads in Akure; Oke -Ogba road, Gaga road, Alagbaka -SIB-Appeal Court road, dualization of “A” Division -Oba Osupa- NEPA – Hospital road down to Oluwatuyi, Aburoso road, Iwalewa road, dualization of Oda road and many more are achievements recorded by the Akeredolu administration within four years. No Governor has, in Ondo state, constructed the kilometers of road he has constructed in four years. It’s unprecedented.
Over 800 Public Primary Schools reconstructed. Over 2000 water facilities rehabilitated, thereby making access to clean and safe water unfettered. He raised the bar of governance by depoliticizing the civil service. He ensured a motivated workforce with regular promotion exercise and appointed over 40 Permanent Secretaries only on merit.
The scorecard of the last four years is in the heart of the people. It is the reason Governor Akeredolu won the October 10, 2020 governorship election overwhelmingly. The first Governor in the state to win a re-election with over 50 percent of the total votes cast. The symbol of a New Ondo State.
As he takes the Oath of office today, our hopes are once again rekindled. Our aspiration are fired with the trust of a genuine leadership. A Talk and Do exponent. A man who combines humor with the vigors of hardwork and tenacity of purpose.
Today is for the people of Ondo State. The return of our trusted leader. A dependable leader. As we celebrate this day, we must also pray for success and strength for the Governor and his deputy, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Arakunrin Akeredolu has assured that his 2nd term in office is not for holiday. To him, the reward of hard work is more work. And it’s time for another round of prosperity in the sunshine state.
I congratulate Governor Akeredolu and our digital First Lady, Arakunrin Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu. I also rejoice with the deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his wife. Just like your reign has prospered us in the first term, it will even be greater in this second term.
Congratulations, Mr. Governor.