Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, on Friday, kicked off his local government campaign tour with a community and stakeholders meeting in Akure South.
The local government campaign tour was ahead of the governorship election, scheduled to take place in the state on November, 16, 2024.
Governor Aiyedatiwa visited the Deji and paramount ruler of Akure kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, to seek his royal blessing and engage with traditional leaders of the community.
Aiyedatiwa, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was at the palace with his deputy and running mate, Dr Olayide Adelami and top party leaders led by the chairman, Mr. Ade Adetimehin.
Addressing the traditional rulers from Akure South Local Government Area, Governor Aiyedatiwa promised the people of Akure Kingdom that he will initiate more infrastructural projects especially roads construction across the kingdom, if elected.
The governor, who explained that Akure had been a peaceful city, said his administration was ready to ensure its beautification to allow the city become more attractive being the state capital.
“Akure remains one of the most peaceful state capitals in Nigeria. If any development wants to happen in the state for good, it must start from Akure. We have been doing what you ask for, we will continue to do more,” Aiyedatiwa said.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, high chiefs and Olus in Akure, the Deji of Akure emphasised the need for a peaceful election, installation of more streetlights, agro-allied empowerment for farmers, and the development of rural roads in the area.
The foremost Akure traditional ruler spoke along with Oba Luyi Rotimi, the Olujigba of Ijigba, Adekunle Ajanaku, the Olu of Okelisa and Senior High Chief Segun Adedipe, the Elemo of Akure.
They unanimously endorsed Governor Aiyedatiwa as the best candidate for the job and pledged their unwavering support, assuring him of their backing in the upcoming election.
Responding to the demands raised by the traditional leaders, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured them that their requests were not only heard but already being addressed.
He said: “Most of the requests have already been implemented and others are well underway, We understand the importance of accessible roads for rural communities and the role of adequate lighting in enhancing security. That is why we are making sure no area is left behind in our development agenda.
“We cannot overemphasise the importance of sanitation in public spaces, especially in our markets where a large part of our economy thrives.
“We want our traders to operate in a clean, healthy environment, and that is why we are building public toilets in key markets across the state.”
Earlier in the day, Governor Aiyedatiwa inaugurated the Owode Akure Community Project under the ONDO CARES initiative.
The project included the construction of six classrooms at St. Peter’s Primary School, Akure, designed to create a conducive learning environment for students.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also made a stop at the Nepa Car Park to engage with the Iyalojas, artisans and leaders of the non-indigene communities. He also visited Ilesa Motor Park to interact with traders, as well as Oda, Aponmu and Gaga communities.
“In a unified voice, these groups acknowledged the positive impact of his administration, commending the visible progress in infrastructure, security, and economic empowerment.
“They assured the governor of their 100 percent support during the election,” Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, stated in a release.
