Lucky Aiyedatiwa has assumed office as Ondo state’s acting governor and addressed the people of the state for the first time.
Aiyedatiwa, who took over the reins following Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s medical leave, acknowledged the recent political situation as a “temporary delay” but emphasised that the government had “recovered”.
In a statewide broadcast on Thursday, Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the challenges faced by the state due to Akeredolu’s health concerns. He stated that the “intrigues” surrounding the issue were “avoidable distractions” and called for a unified effort to move forward.
“It is not for us as humans to question God but to pray for His mercies upon our lives,” he said. “We must acknowledge that the key to the well-being of a man is in the hands of God.”
Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and Pa Reuben Fasoranti for their role in maintaining peace and stability during the period of uncertainty.
The acting governor pledged to continue the legacy of Governor Akeredolu and deliver on the promises made to the people of Ondo. He also appealed to the state government officials and citizens to work together in this endeavour.
He said, “We must acknowledge that the key to the well-being of a man is in the hands of God. It is not for us as humans to question God but to pray for His mercies upon our lives.
”It is in this regard that we admit with all sense of responsibility that the intrigues that ensued due to Mr Governor’s health challenges were indeed avoidable distractions.
“We ought to have done better to keep giving Ondo State the seamless and solid governance which Oluwarotimi Akeredolu had established in the state in the last six-and-a-half years.
“I cannot but specially appreciate the third arm of government, the Judiciary through the honourable Chief Judge, for its courage, commitment and dedication to protecting democracy and the constitution of the nation.
“It is on record that we all sailed through the unnecessary and avoidable weather together. We won together. We are all one large family.
“We are one great people with one focus: to make our state greater than it is today. At a personal level, I am confident that our democracy would be further enriched by the hard lessons learnt from this episode.
“Yesterday is already behind us. This is the time to carry aloft, with love and affection for one another, the laudable vision and mission of the Governor for the State.
“I appeal to every member of the government of Ondo state for your genuine support, cooperation and dedication.”
He also appealed to the people of the state to continue praying for Akeredolu’s quick recovery.