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  • Ondo govt pledges zero tolerance for cultism, thuggery, civil unrest

    Ondo govt pledges zero tolerance for cultism, thuggery, civil unrest

    The Ondo State government has said the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa will not condole any form of social vices particularly cultism, thuggery and civil unrest in the state.

    In a statement issued on Monday by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, the state government declared zero tolerance for any form of criminal activity that could tarnish the state’s reputation or hinder its development.

    The government also affirmed its commitment to promoting the cherished ‘Omoluabi values’ rooted in Yoruba tradition that define the people of the state, emphasising respect, hard work, and value for life. 

    While highlighting the plans of Governor Aiyedatiwa towards sustainable growth under his OUR EASE (ODATIWA) Agenda, the government insists that moral discipline and communal vigilance remain essential tools in building a state of pride, peace, and prosperity.

    It called on traditional rulers, politicians, student leaders, market women, religious leaders, and the general public to join hands with governor Aiyedatiwa’s in combating cultism, political violence, kidnapping, and other destabilizing behaviors.

    “The rise in social vices is alarming and unacceptable. As people known for dignity, discipline, and hard work, we must all rise to defend our values. Ondo State cannot afford to be dragged into the mud of lawlessness,” the statement read. 

    Read Also: Ondo govt, SDP clash over ‘poor conditions of court rooms’

    He warned that development and investor confidence cannot thrive in a climate of insecurity and urged citizens to see the fight against crime as a collective responsibility.

    “The orientation must begin now. Every citizen has a role to play in upholding the ethics of good behaviour. Report crimes in your communities. Be ambassadors of peace and order. That is the way to build a safe, attractive, and economically vibrant Ondo State,” it added.

    The government, however, rolled out intensified civic education campaigns across the 18 local government areas, using community influencers, local media, and digital platforms to reinforce these values. 

  • Lawyer kicks as Aiyedatiwa seeks constitutional backing for 33 LCDAs

    Lawyer kicks as Aiyedatiwa seeks constitutional backing for 33 LCDAs

    The move by Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to secure constitutional backing for the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) has again been rejected.

    The latest development came as a lawyer, Tolu Babaleye, represented by a legal firm, kicked against Aiyedatiwa’s position to have legal backing for the 33 LCDAs.

    The governor had last Friday at the public hearing of the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, held in Akure, appealed to the Committee on the Constitution Amendment to recommend the inclusion of newly-created LCDAs in the proposed constitution.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa said it was the interest of the government and people of the state that additional local governments be created in the state, citing how Lagos State LCDAs were being proposed for inclusion in the constitution as full-fledged local governments.

    “In Ondo State, we have functional 33 LCDAs duly created by the state government. We strongly advocate that the proposed bill be expanded and these 33 LCDAs in Ondo State be recognised as full-fledged local governments in the First Schedule of the Constitution,” he told the committee.

    Recall that the House of Assembly had passed the bill for the creation of 33 additional councils to co-exist with the 18 local governments of the state on August 15, 2023.

    Read Also: I’m in office to project Aiyedatiwa’s administration

    In September 2023, former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu signed the bill into law, a day after his return from three months medical leave – but the decision sparked crisis, with some communities and the opposition parties in the state rejecting the development, prompting legal tussle.

    The Akure Division of the High Court in the state had in June 2024 nullified the creation of the additional 33 LCDAs.

    Justice Adegboyega Adebusoye of the State High Court, who gave the verdict, had held that it was illegal for a governor (the late Akeredolu) to sign a law outside the state he or she governed.

    Adebusuoye said the LG Creation Law 2023, which birthed the 33 LCDAs, stood nullified because the late Akeredolu signed the law in Ibadan, Oyo State, and not on Ondo soil.

    But addressing reporters at the weekend, Babaleye, represented by the legal firm through a counsel, Beckiston Ataine, accused the state government led by Aiyedatiwa of attempting to bypass the court’s ruling by lobbying members of the National Assembly for the inclusion of the 33 LCDAs in Nigeria’s Constitution.

    He described the LCDAs as “legally non-existent, as dead as fried plantains,” emphasising that the state’s continued recognition of the councils flouts the rule of law.

    Ataine, who also represented the aggrieved residents of Akoko land, underscored the High Court’s landmark judgment that declared the creation of the 33 LCDAs illegal, null and void.

    The lawyer recalls how the High Court had also ruled that the process for the creation of the 33 LCDAs was lopsided, disproportionately marginalising communities, particularly in Akoko land, in favour of others.

    “The legal battle began when Akoko land residents, feeling short-changed by the uneven distribution of the LCDAs, sought redress in court.

    “However, the state government’s response has been less than forthcoming. Although it filed an appeal against the judgment, no substantial progress has been made,” he said.

    The law firm revealed that “the government failed to submit its brief of argument after reluctantly transmitting appeal records out of time, suggesting the appeal was merely a ploy to delay the enforcement of the court’s decision.

    “Further compounding the issue, the state government applied for a stay of execution, a move Ataine dismissed as futile since declarative judgments, like the one nullifying the LCDAs, cannot be stayed under Nigerian law.

    “The government’s actions show a blatant disregard for the judiciary,” Ataine said, expressing dismay that ‘’the state has continued to treat the LCDAs as legitimate entities, allocating resources and administrative functions to them despite their nullification. We are not here to clash with the government but to ensure justice prevails.”

    He urged the people of Akoko to remain peaceful while the firm takes steps to formally advise the National Assembly on the legal status of the LCDAs.

    “The judgment of the Ondo State High Court remains sacrosanct, and we call on the state government to respect it in the interest of harmony and fairness.”

  • Aiyedatiwa’s push for legal backing of Ondo LCDAs faces fresh opposition

    Aiyedatiwa’s push for legal backing of Ondo LCDAs faces fresh opposition

    Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s renewed effort to secure constitutional recognition for the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Ondo State has once again met resistance.

    A legal practitioner, Tolu Babaleye, through his law firm, has openly opposed the governor’s call for the inclusion of the LCDAs in the amended 1999 Constitution. 

    Babaleye’s opposition marks the latest setback in the administration’s push for full legal status for the newly created council areas.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa had, during a public hearing of the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution held in Akure on Friday, urged the committee to recommend the recognition of the LCDAs in the proposed amendments.

    He argued that the creation of the additional council areas aligns with the aspirations of the people of Ondo State, noting that Lagos State’s LCDAs were being considered for elevation to full local government status in the constitutional review process.

    “In Ondo State, we have functional thirty three (33) LCDAs duly created by the State Government. We strongly advocate that the proposed bill be expanded and these 33 LCDAs in Ondo State be recognised as fully-fledged Local Governments in the First Schedule of the Constitution,” he told the committee. 

    Recall that the State House of Assembly had passed the bill for the creation of 33 additional councils to co-exist with the 18 Local Government Areas of the state on August 15, 2023. 

    In September 2023, late former Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, signed the bill into law, a day after his return from three months medical leave – but the decision sparked crisis with some communities and the opposition parties in the state rejecting the development, prompting legal tussle. 

    The Akure Division of the High Court in the state had in June 2024 nullified the creation of the additional 33 LCDAs in the state.

    Read Also: Ajanaku vows to reposition Ondo information ministry, promote Aiyedatiwa’s govt

    Justice Adegboyega Adebusoye of the State High Court, who gave the verdict, had held that it is illegal for a governor [late Akeredolu] to sign a law outside the state he or she governs. 

    Adebusuoye said the LG Creation Law 2023, which birthed the 33 LCDAs, stood nullified because late Akeredolu signed the law in Ibadan, Oyo State, and not on Ondo soil. 

    But Addressing reporters at the weekend, Babaleye, represented by the legal firm through a counsel, Beckiston Ataine, accused the state government led by Aiyedatiwa of attempting to bypass the court’s ruling by lobbying members of the National Assembly for the inclusion of the 33 LCDAs in Nigeria’s Constitution.

    He described the LCDAs as “legally nonexistent, as dead as fried plantains,” emphasising that the state’s continued recognition of the councils flouts the rule of law.

    Ataine, which also represented the aggrieved residents of Akoko land, underscored the High Court’s landmark judgment that declared the creation of the 33 LCDAs illegal, null, and void. 

    The legal practitioner recalls how the high court had also ruled that the process for the creation of the 33 LCDAs was lopsided, disproportionately marginalizing communities, particularly in Akoko land, in favour of others.

    “The legal battle began when Akoko land residents, feeling shortchanged by the uneven distribution of the LCDAs, sought redress in court. 

    “However, the state government’s response has been less than forthcoming. Although it filed an appeal against the judgment, no substantial progress has been made,” he said. 

    The law firm revealed that “the government failed to submit its brief of argument after reluctantly transmitting appeal records out of time, suggesting the appeal was merely a ploy to delay the enforcement of the court’s decision.

    “Further compounding the issue, the state government applied for a stay of execution, a move Ataine dismissed as futile since declarative judgments, like the one nullifying the LCDAs, cannot be stayed under Nigerian law.

     “The government’s actions show a blatant disregard for the judiciary,” Ataine stated, expressing dismay that the state has continued to treat the LCDAs as legitimate entities, allocating resources and administrative functions to them despite their nullification. We are not here to clash with the government but to ensure justice prevails.”

    He urged the people of Akoko to remain peaceful while the firm takes steps to formally advise the National Assembly on the legal status of the LCDAs. 

    “The judgment of the Ondo State High Court remains sacrosanct, and we call on the state government to respect it in the interest of harmony and fairness.”

  • Ondo to revolutionize power sector reform with open access electricity regulation 

    Ondo to revolutionize power sector reform with open access electricity regulation 

    In a bold move to reshape the electricity distribution landscape, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has declared his administration’s readiness to position the state as a model of progress and innovation in electricity regulation through the proposed Open Access Electricity Distribution and Competitive Retail Regulation 2025.

     Speaking through the State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Dr. Johnson Alabi, at a stakeholders’ consultation forum, organized by the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (OSERB), in Akure, on Wednesday, the governor emphasized that the new regulatory framework aimed to break monopolies in electricity distribution, enhance consumer choice, and drive private sector participation.

     “Ondo State has suffered from underinvestment in distribution infrastructure and limited consumer access to prepaid meters.

     “This regulation is a strategic response to dismantle bottlenecks, allow multiple service providers, and bring affordable, reliable electricity to all,” he said.

     Key highlights of the Proposed Regulation are: Open access model that allows multiple licensed distributors to operate; enables embedded generators and Independent Power Plants (IPPs) to supply directly to bulk and retail consumers; consumer choice of electricity providers, driving competition and potentially lowering tariffs; focus on equitable access to underserved and rural communities.

    Aiyedatiwa praised OSERB for its professionalism and reaffirmed the state’s support for initiatives such as improved meter accessibility, strengthened regulatory independence, and streamlined energy project approvals.

     Speaking at the event, OSERB State Coordinator, Engr. Stephen Bolawole, described the forum as a transparent and participatory effort to ensure the regulatory framework reflects local realities.

    Read Also: FAAC shares highest allocation of N1.818tr in June

     The objectives, he said, include: Gathering feedback from consumers, providers, and traditional leaders. Identifying practical gaps before implementation. Building consensus and shared ownership of the reform process.

     Guest speaker and Legal/Regulatory Consultant, Dr. Imamudeen Talba, provided an in-depth analysis of the regulation’s technical, legal, and economic frameworks.

     He noted that while challenges are expected, the long-term benefits—such as improved network reliability and economic stimulation, justified the effort.

     “The regulation must be dynamic, evolving with technological advancements and market trends,” he advised.

     This Ondo State Government’s initiative is expected to bring about significant improvements in the State’s power sector, enhancing the lives of citizens and driving economic growth.

  • I’m in office to project Aiyedatiwa’s administration

    I’m in office to project Aiyedatiwa’s administration

    The newly-inaugurated Commissioner for Information and Orientation in Ondo State, Mr Idowu Ajanaku, has pledged his commitment to project Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration for strategic public communication.

    Ajanaku was among the 16 commissioners sworn in on Monday by Governor Aiyedatiwa at an elaborate event held at the International Centre for Culture and Events in Akure.

    Resuming in his office officially yesterday, where he was welcomed by the workers of the Ministry of Information, Ajanaku said it was time to reposition the ministry as a vibrant organ of government communication.

    He stressed the need for unity among media stakeholders, saying he was ready to deploy his experience in promoting the image of the government.

    He acknowledged the critical role of the Ministry of Information and Orientation as both “the image manager of the state” and “the voice of the people.”

    “My mission is to project the achievements of Mr. Governor, rebrand government communication and foster genuine citizen engagement.

    “I thank Governor Aiyedatiwa for the trust and opportunity to serve. I also thank God Almighty for life and this privilege,” Ajanaku said.

    Outlining his vision for the ministry, Ajanaku emphasised the importance of effectively telling the story of the Aiyedatiwa administration under the Our Ease agenda, a policy framework focusing on inclusive growth, infrastructure, empowerment and good governance.

    “Ondo State has a compelling story to tell, and it must be told effectively, creatively and truthfully. This ministry will be lifted to a high pedestal, and all hands must be on deck as we take on this collective task.

    Read Also: I’m in office to project Aiyedatiwa’s administration

    “I’m ready to deploy every experience I have gathered to promote the administration of Governor Aiyedatiwa and the enormous potential of Ondo State to the global community,” Ajanaku said.

    Speaking earlier on a radio programme aired on Adaba 88.9 FM, Akure, which was monitored by The Nation, the commissioner called for harmony and collaboration among professionals to achieve the common goal of effective information dissemination.

    He said he was prepared to reposition the Ministry of Information as a strategic channel for government communication and public engagement, describing his appointment as a call to service and a responsibility he does not take lightly.

    Ajanaku, a seasoned media strategist with years of experience in journalism and political communication, assured the public of a transparent and proactive information dissemination approach.

    He said his tenure would prioritise credibility, innovation and professionalism.

    Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo Council, has congratulated Mr Ajanaku on his inauguration by Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    In a congratulatory message jointly signed by the state Chairman, Leke Adegbite and Secretary, Olaoluwa Meshack, NUJ expressed confidence in the ability of Ajanaku as a core senior journalist to harness the media potential in the state and beyond for the benefit of the people and growth of the state.

    The union expressed the readiness of the NUJ leadership and members of the media profession in the state to support and work seamlessly with the new commissioner for a smooth running of government’s activities in an informed society.

    It urged “the new commissioner to form a formidable relationship with members of the pen profession in the state for a better service delivery.”

    Also, Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals (ACSPN) in the state has congratulated Mr Ajanaku on his appointment and expressed confidence in his capacity to reposition the ministry to drive effective public enlightenment and engagement with media stakeholders.

    A statement jointly signed yesterday by the Chairman of the association, Sunday Kolawole, and Secretary, Richard Ilesanmi, said the association promised to collaborate with his ministry to enhance media literacy, strategic communication and institutional research, to promote civic engagement in the state.

    “The body of scholars, researchers and media professionals believes the new commissioner’s wealth of experience, especially in journalism and public affairs, will strengthen government-media relations and enhance citizens’ access to timely and credible information,” the statement further said.

  • I’m in office to project Aiyedatiwa’s administration

    I’m in office to project Aiyedatiwa’s administration

    The newly-inaugurated Commissioner for Information and Orientation in Ondo State, Mr Idowu Ajanaku, has pledged his commitment to project Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration for strategic public communication.

    Ajanaku was among the 16 commissioners sworn in on Monday by Governor Aiyedatiwa at an elaborate event held at the International Centre for Culture and Events in Akure.

    Resuming in his office officially yesterday, where he was welcomed by the workers of the Ministry of Information, Ajanaku said it was time to reposition the ministry as a vibrant organ of government communication.

    He stressed the need for unity among media stakeholders, saying he was ready to deploy his experience in promoting the image of the government.

    He acknowledged the critical role of the Ministry of Information and Orientation as both “the image manager of the state” and “the voice of the people.”

    “My mission is to project the achievements of Mr. Governor, rebrand government communication and foster genuine citizen engagement.

    “I thank Governor Aiyedatiwa for the trust and opportunity to serve. I also thank God Almighty for life and this privilege,” Ajanaku said.

    Outlining his vision for the ministry, Ajanaku emphasised the importance of effectively telling the story of the Aiyedatiwa administration under the Our Ease agenda, a policy framework focusing on inclusive growth, infrastructure, empowerment and good governance.

    “Ondo State has a compelling story to tell, and it must be told effectively, creatively and truthfully. This ministry will be lifted to a high pedestal, and all hands must be on deck as we take on this collective task.

    “I’m ready to deploy every experience I have gathered to promote the administration of Governor Aiyedatiwa and the enormous potential of Ondo State to the global community,” Ajanaku said.

    Speaking earlier on a radio programme aired on Adaba 88.9 FM, Akure, which was monitored by The Nation, the commissioner called for harmony and collaboration among professionals to achieve the common goal of effective information dissemination.

    Read Also: 36 commissioners oppose Senate-proposed Electricity Act Amendment Bill

    He said he was prepared to reposition the Ministry of Information as a strategic channel for government communication and public engagement, describing his appointment as a call to service and a responsibility he does not take lightly.

    Ajanaku, a seasoned media strategist with years of experience in journalism and political communication, assured the public of a transparent and proactive information dissemination approach.

    He said his tenure would prioritise credibility, innovation and professionalism.

    Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo Council, has congratulated Mr Ajanaku on his inauguration by Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    In a congratulatory message jointly signed by the state Chairman, Leke Adegbite and Secretary, Olaoluwa Meshack, NUJ expressed confidence in the ability of Ajanaku as a core senior journalist to harness the media potential in the state and beyond for the benefit of the people and growth of the state.

    The union expressed the readiness of the NUJ leadership and members of the media profession in the state to support and work seamlessly with the new commissioner for a smooth running of government’s activities in an informed society.

    It urged “the new commissioner to form a formidable relationship with members of the pen profession in the state for a better service delivery.”

    Also, Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals (ACSPN) in the state has congratulated Mr Ajanaku on his appointment and expressed confidence in his capacity to reposition the ministry to drive effective public enlightenment and engagement with media stakeholders.

    A statement jointly signed yesterday by the Chairman of the association, Sunday Kolawole, and Secretary, Richard Ilesanmi, said the association promised to collaborate with his ministry to enhance media literacy, strategic communication and institutional research, to promote civic engagement in the state.

    “The body of scholars, researchers and media professionals believes the new commissioner’s wealth of experience, especially in journalism and public affairs, will strengthen government-media relations and enhance citizens’ access to timely and credible information,” the statement further said.

  • Ajanaku vows to reposition Ondo information ministry, promote Aiyedatiwa’s govt

    Ajanaku vows to reposition Ondo information ministry, promote Aiyedatiwa’s govt

    Newly inaugurated Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, has pledged to strategically promote the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa through effective public communication.

    Ajanaku, one of the 16 commissioners sworn in on Monday at a ceremony held at the International Centre for Culture and Events in Akure, officially resumed office on Thursday to a warm reception by ministry staff.

    Speaking during his assumption of duty, Ajanaku expressed his determination to reposition the ministry as a dynamic hub for government communication. He also called for unity among media stakeholders in the state, stressing his readiness to use his experience to enhance the government’s image.

    He described the ministry as both “the image manager of the state” and “the voice of the people,” highlighting its crucial role in governance and public engagement.

    “My mission is to project the achievements of Mr. Governor, rebrand government communication, and foster genuine citizen engagement

    “I thank His Excellency, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for the trust and opportunity to serve. I also thank God Almighty for life and this privilege,” Ajanaku said.

    Outlining his vision for the ministry, Ajanaku emphasized the importance of effectively telling the story of the Aiyedatiwa administration under the OUR EASE agenda, a policy framework focusing on inclusive growth, infrastructure, empowerment, and good governance.

    “Ondo State has a compelling story to tell, and it must be told effectively, creatively, and truthfully. This ministry will be lifted to a high pedestal, and all hands must be on deck as we take on this collective task.

    “I’m ready to deploy every experience I have gathered to promote the administration of Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the enormous potential of Ondo State to the global community,” Ajanaku stated.

    Speaking earlier on a radio programme aired on Adaba 88.9 FM, Akure, which was monitored by the NATION, the commissioner called for harmony and collaboration among professionals to achieve the common goal of effective information dissemination.

    He said he is prepared to reposition the Ministry of Information as a strategic channel for government communication and public engagement, describing his appointment as a call to service and a responsibility he does not take lightly.

    Ajanaku, a seasoned media strategist with years of experience in journalism and political communication, assured the public of a transparent and proactive information dissemination approach.

    He added that his tenure will prioritize credibility, innovation, and professionalism.

    Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo Council, has congratulated Mr Ajanaku on his inauguration by Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    In a congratulatory message jointly signed by the State Chairman, Leke Adegbite, and the State Secretary, Olaoluwa Meshack, NUJ expressed confidence in the ability of Ajanaku as a core senior journalist to harness the media potentials in the state and beyond for the benefit of the people and growth of the state.

    The union expressed the readiness of the NUJ leadership and members of the media profession in the state to support and work seamlessly with the new commissioner for a smooth running of the government’s activities in an informed society.

    It urged, “The new commissioner to form a formidable relationship with members of the pen profession in the state for a better service delivery.”

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to Ajanaku, Ajibefun, Awolowo, 13 other exco members

    Also, the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals (ACSPN), in the state, has congratulated Mr Ajanaku over his appointment and also expressed confidence in his capacity to reposition the ministry to drive effective public enlightenment and engagement with media stakeholders.

    In a statement jointly signed on Thursday by its Chairman of the Association, Sunday Kolawole, and the Secretary, Richard Ilesanmi, the association promised to collaborate with his ministry to enhance media literacy, strategic communication, and institutional research to promote civic engagement in the state.

    “The body of scholars, researchers and media professionals believes the new commissioner’s wealth of experience, especially in journalism and public affairs, will strengthen government-media relations and enhance citizens’ access to timely and credible information,” the statement. 

  • Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to Ajanaku, Ajibefun, Awolowo, 13 other exco members

    Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to Ajanaku, Ajibefun, Awolowo, 13 other exco members

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has assigned portfolios to the newly sworn in commissioners.

    This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, in Akure yesterday.

    The statement said the commissioners were expected to resume at their offices, following their inauguration into the Executive Council (Exco).

    The commissioners and their portfolios are: Idowu Ajanaku, Information and Orientation; Igbekele Ajibefun – Education; Ayorinde Olawoye – Infrastructure, Lands and Housing; Ayodele Akande – Water Resources and Public Sanitation; Alabi Johnson – Energy and Mineral Resources; Amidu Takuro – Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Adewale Akinlosotu – Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations –

    Others are: Seun Osamaye – Women Affairs and Social Development; Tob Loko – Environment; Olaolu Akindolire – Budget and Economic Planning; Sunday Olajide – Physical Planning and Urban Development; Omoyofunmi Henry – Youths and Sports Development; Bola Ademuwagun – Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives; Leye Akinola – Agriculture and Forestry; Banji Awolowo Ajaka.- Health and Adesoji Afolabi – Culture and Tourism.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa, Falae: a man of integrity

    The development is coming barely 24 hours after the 16 commissioners were sworn in at an elaborate event held at the International Centre for Culture and Events, Akure.

    At the swearing-in, Aiyedatiwa urged the Exco members to hit the ground running, stressing the need for them to deliver on his administration’s electioneering promises.

    The governor advised their friends and families against putting undue pressure on the new commissioners, by seeking undue favours from them.

    “To your family members, friends and associates, I offer congratulations and a word of caution. While we appreciate their support, they must not put the new appointees under undue pressure by soliciting from them unnecessary favours.

    ‘’You must refrain from promoting sectional interests, as your constituencies are not limited to specific areas – the entire state is their responsibility,” Aiyedatiwa said.

  • Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    …warns families against putting pressure, unnecessary favours on appointees

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has assigned portfolios to the 16 newly inaugurated commissioners in the state, directing them to immediately assume duty and deliver on the administration’s promises.

    This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, in Akure.

    The appointment of portfolios came less than 24 hours after the commissioners were sworn in at a ceremony held at the International Centre for Culture and Events, Akure.

    According to the statement, the commissioners and their respective ministries are:

    Idowu Ajanaku – Information and Orientation

    Igbekele Ajibefun – Education

    Ayorinde Abiola Olawoye – Infrastructure, Lands and Housing

    Ayodele Akande – Water Resources and Public Sanitation

    READ ALSO: Presidency: FEC postpones special session in honour of Buhari

    Alabi Johnson – Energy and Mineral Resources

    Amidu Takuro – Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs

    Adewale Akinlosotu – Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations

    Seun Abosede Osamaye – Women Affairs and Social Development

    Tob Loko – Environment

    Olaolu Akindolire – Budget and Economic Planning

    Sunday Olajide – Physical Planning and Urban Development

    Omoyofunmi Segun Henry – Youths and Sports Development

    Bola Ademuwagun – Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives

    Leye Akinola – Agriculture and Forestry

    Banji Awolowo Ajaka – Health

    Adesoji Afolabi – Culture and Tourism

    During the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa urged the appointees to hit the ground running and uphold the administration’s commitment to good governance.

    He also issued a stern warning to their associates: “To your family members, friends, and associates, I offer congratulations and a word of caution. While we appreciate their support, they must not put the new appointees under undue pressure by soliciting unnecessary favours.”

    He reminded the commissioners that their responsibilities extend across the entire state, not just their local constituencies.

  • Aiyedatiwa to commissioners: deliver on my administration’s promises

    Aiyedatiwa to commissioners: deliver on my administration’s promises

    • Governor swears in 16 Exco members

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has urged the newly sworn in 16 commissioners to hit the ground running, stressing the need for them to deliver on his administration’s electioneering promises.

    He reiterated his administration’s commitment to accountability and excellent service delivery to the people.

    Aiyedatiwa spoke yesterday in Akure during the swearing-in of the second batch of commissioners into the Executive Council (Exco).

    Read Also: How Buhari and I were admitted in same UK hospital before his death, by Abdulsalami

    The governor described the event as a “significant milestone in the journey to building a greater state.”

    He said his administration believed in slow and steady governance by prioritising consistency, goal attainment and sustained progress over haste.

    He said people’s expectations were high, ‘’hence only the best is acceptable.’’

    “The people of Ondo State expect nothing but the best from us, having entrusted us with an overwhelming mandate. We must strive to deliver on our electioneering promises.

    “This concept highlights the value of persistence, patience and steady progress in achieving goals. Within the first 100 days of our administration, we have proved that slow and steady wins the race,” he said.

    The governor urged the families and associates of the new commissioners against exerting undue pressure on them for personal or sectional gains.

    He said his administration had maintained continuity on building existing projects and by introducing new initiatives across the state.

    Aiyedatiwa added that proactive engagements with credible investors were already yielding positive results for the state’s economy.

    “Our administration is committed to integrity, transparency, accountability and excellent service.

    “We enjoin the new appointees to key fully into these values toward developing a more virile and prosperous Ondo State,” he said.

    Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, described the appointment of the commissioners as a strategic step toward inclusive and people-focused governance.

    He praised Aiyedatiwa’s visionary leadership and commitment to development, noting that the appointees were carefully selected based on merit, competence and loyalty to the administration’s agenda.

    He advised the commissioners to see their roles as a call to impactful service and enjoined them to uphold the trust placed in them.

    Responding on behalf of the newly- inaugurated commissioners, Mr Segun Omoyofunmi expressed gratitude to the governor for the trust and opportunity to serve.

    He said they would discharge their duties diligently and serve the state to the best of their abilities.

    The new commissioners are Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, Ayorinde Olawoye, an engineer; Mr Ayodele Akande, Alabi Johnson, an engineer; Mr Amidu Takuro and Mr Adewale Akinlosotu.

    Others are Mr Idowu Ajanaku, Dr. Oluwaseun Osamaye, Mr. Tob Loko, Mr. Olaolu Akindolire, Sunday Olajide, Mr. Segun Omoyofunmi, Mr. Bola Ademuwagun, Mr. Leye Akinola, Dr. Banji Ajaka and Mr. Adesoji Afolabi.