The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday led top government officials to Owo communities, meeting with the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III and the Ojomuluda of Ijebu-Owo, Oba Kofoworola Olatunbosun Ojomo Aruliwo III, to condole with them over the death of their son and former governor, Rotimi Akeredolu.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
Condoling with the monarchs and high chiefs of the communities over Akeredolu’s death, Aiyedatiwa paid tributes to late former governor, acknowledging the monumental legacies he left behind.
The governor emphasised the continuity of governance and assured on the completion of ongoing projects initiated by the former governor.
“We came to pay condolences because we know he was your son. We commiserate with the entire Owo kingdom. Although he is gone, his legacies remain; he lives on. He died in office, so the State will give him a befitting state burial. We pray such tragedy won’t befall our dear State again,” the governor said.
Responding, the Olowo of Owo expressed gratitude to Aiyedatiwa and the state executive council members for their visit.
The monarch commended late Akeredolu’s dedication to the state’s development and acknowledged the hand of fate in his passing.
He said, “God took Akeredolu which will always be a loss to the entire country but we also thank God because Aiyedatiwa is a blessing from God too.
“We want to assure you that the entire people of Owo kingdom will support your administration.
“The success of your administration will be our top priority. You have assured us that the uncompleted projects the late governor couldn’t complete, you will complete. We put our trust in you, and may God help you in achieving everything.”
At Ijebu-owo, Aiyedatiwa said, “We have come to pay our condolences because the late governor was a son every father would be proud of. It is a great loss, especially for the people of Ijebu-owo.”
Reflecting on Akeredolu’s accomplishments, Aiyedatiwa highlighted the late governor’s far-reaching influence and notable achievements, including initiatives such as the establishment of Amotekun, aimed at securing lives and property.
In response, Oba Kofoworola Olatunbosun expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of Ijebu-owo for the governor’s visit.
The monarch reflected on Akeredolu’s enduring legacy and lauded his contributions to the state’s progress.
“We appreciate you for coming to commiserate with us on the demise of our son Rotimi Akeredolu. He did his best while he was alive, and it is the legacies left behind that would make us always remember him. We pray that God will guide your path on this new journey as the governor of ondo state,” the monarch said.