Lucky Aiyedatiwa has officially begun his first full term as Governor of Ondo State, following his inauguration at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure. The ceremony, held on Monday, marks a new chapter in the state’s leadership after the passing of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu in December 2023.
Aiyedatiwa, who won the governorship election under the All Progressives Congress (APC), took his oath of office alongside his deputy, Olayide Adelami. The event drew a large crowd of supporters who cheered as the governor completed his swearing-in formalities.
Following the oath-taking, Aiyedatiwa toured the complex in an open van, waving to the jubilant audience. His victory in the November 16, 2024 election cemented his position as the seventh governor of Ondo State, extending his stay in the Government House in Alagbaka, Akure.
The road to the governorship was fiercely contested, with Aiyedatiwa facing a strong challenge from Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Ajayi, a former deputy governor, mounted a determined campaign but ultimately fell short at the polls.
Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Aiyedatiwa the winner after he secured 366,781 votes, significantly outpacing Ajayi’s 117,845 votes. The Returning Officer, Olayemi Akinwumi, who also serves as the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, made the announcement.
With his inauguration complete, Aiyedatiwa now faces the challenge of steering Ondo State forward. His administration will be closely watched as he sets out to implement policies aimed at economic growth, infrastructure development, and improved governance.
Supporters and political analysts alike will be assessing how he builds on Akeredolu’s legacy while crafting his own path as the leader of the Sunshine State.
