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Tag: Aiyedatiwa

  • ‘How Aiyedatiwa can unlock Ondo growth potential’

    ‘How Aiyedatiwa can unlock Ondo growth potential’

    Former Chair of Governing Council of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Banji Alabi, has listed ways Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa can unlock Ondo State’s potential for economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

    Alabi, who hailed Aiyedatiwa on his victory, said his election was a testament to the trust and confidence the people have in his leadership.

    In a statement in Akure, Alabi urged Aiyedatiwa to upgrade Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to a university, as  proposed by the government.

    Read Also: FCCPC warns against smuggled low-quality sugar in Nigerian markets

    He said the initiative could ‘create a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation.

     “Create a dedicated space for startups, innovators, and entrepreneurs to collaborate and access resources.

    “Foster collaborations with local and international organisations, academia, and industry leaders to drive innovation and investment’’.

    “Encourage education and training programmes in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to develop a skilled workforce,” he said.

  • Ondo election: INEC presents certificate of return to Aiyedatiwa, deputy

    Ondo election: INEC presents certificate of return to Aiyedatiwa, deputy

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday, November 20, presented certificates of return to Ondo state governor-elect, Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his Deputy at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. 

    Aiyedatiwa won the November 16 governorship election in Ondo state, defeating 17 other candidates. 

    The certificate was presented to the governor and his deputy by the National Commissioner supervising Ondo state, Prof Kunle Ajayi. 

    Speaking after receiving the certificate, the governor elect said the presentation marked the end of a political journey that started few months ago with the release of the electoral timetable by INEC and the conduct of party primaries. 

    He thanked the people if the state for the confidence reposed in him and for coming out to exercise their franchise and renewing his mandate. 

    He said: “The mandate you have just renewed via your huge votes across the 18 LGAs where we won convincingly has placed a burden on me to serve you better than I did before now.”

    Read Also: Ondo polls: Court reserves ruling on suit challenging Aiyedatiwa’s deputy eligibility

    He also thanked President Bola Tinubu, whom he said provided a level playing field for all parties.

    While he thanked other stakeholders for their commitment to the electoral process, Aiyedatiwa praised INEC for “conducting a free, fair, transparent, credible, and inclusive election.”

    National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje led some members of the party’s National Working Committee to the event which also had in attendance, Ogun state governor, Dapo Abiodun and members of the National Assembly from Ondo state.

  • Ondo polls: Court reserves ruling on suit challenging Aiyedatiwa’s deputy eligibility

    Ondo polls: Court reserves ruling on suit challenging Aiyedatiwa’s deputy eligibility

    The Federal High Court sitting in Akure has reserved judgment in a suit challenging the eligibility of the deputy governor of Ondo state, Dr. Olayide Adelami, to contest last Saturday’s governorship election.

    Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon Agboola Ajayi, had filed the suit challenging the qualification of Adelami as running mate to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    Ajayi, in the suit, sought the disqualification of APC from the ballot.

    In his originating summons, Ajayi, who came second at the poll said Adelami had multiple conflicting and irreconcilable names of Adelami Owolabi Jackson and Olaide Owolabi Adelami.

    The former Deputy Governor asked the court to disqualify Adelami and the governorship candidate.

    Among his prayers were, “That the first defendant (Adelami) is constitutionally disqualified from contesting the election as Deputy Governorship candidate of APC.

     “A declaration that the APC has no validly nominated Governorship and Deputy Governorship candidate for the 2024 election.”

     He asked for an order disqualifying the defendants from participating in the election as well as an order restraining INEC from publishing their names or allowing them to participate in the election.

    Counsel to Adelami, Remi Olatubora, in his reaction, said that the West African Examination Council (WAEC) result has the name Adelami Owolabi Jackson in 1974 and that a degree certificate from Ambrose Alli University issued in 1982 has the name Adelami Olaide Owolabi.

    Olatubora said the grievance of the plaintiffs was not about discrepancies in the name but the order or arrangements of the names.

    Read Also: Ondo polls: Why parties should accept INEC’s results, Yiaga Africa

    Olatubora said the plaintiffs have no right to file the suit in accordance with section 29(5) of the Electoral Act 2022 because they are not members of All Progressives Congress and did not participate in the primaries of the APC that produced Adelami and Aiyedatiwa as candidates

    He said: “The plaintiffs lack the locus standi to file the suit or seek the reliefs set out in the originating summons. That the suit as a matter of law does not qualify as a pre-election matter, and this court lacks jurisdiction.”

    Olatubora said the suit is incompetent having been commenced by originating summon instead of a writ of summons as the suit is based on the allegation of fraud Presiding Judge, Justice Toyin Bolaji Adegoke, fixed judgment on the suit to a date to be communicated to all parties.

  • Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s road to victory

    Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s road to victory

    The political sojourn of Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa can be likened to that of the proverbial child born under the lucky star. His story resonates with many as a story that rejigs hope and consistency. When the road seemed rough for him while navigating the murky waters of politics fuelled by his detractors, he remained steadfast not allowing issues to go wrong with him and his erstwhile boss, the late Arakurin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. 

    While as Deputy Governor, he was trampled and disrespected by some larger-than-life cabinet members who were in the good books of the then-governor. Instead of Aiyedatiwa to flare up, he was prayerful and remained calm playing his role as a deputy. When his boss was sick and flown to Germany for treatment, he was sidelined by some elements in the government who did not want him to shine like the star he was. But in the face of provocation, he remained resilient and unwavering. He was intimidated by many who felt he did not deserve what rightfully belonged to his office. While he called for meetings to coordinate the government when his boss was sick; many never answered him nor regarded him as they felt he was not in the best position to summon them so they looked away. While the House of Assembly tried to impeach him and also lay several allegations on him, he came out victorious and their impeachment plan never saw the light of the day. 

    Read Also: EFCC fires two staff over corrupt practices

    After the death of his boss, he was sworn in as Governor and those who never took him seriously started lobbying him but to their chagrin, he moved on and immediately focused on governance getting the state back afloat after it was grounded by the sickness of his former boss.

    His detractors didn’t stop while he was sworn in as governor, they tried every possible means to disrupt his government but they never knew that the Deputy Governor was now the Government and now in charge of the state. He took charge and corrected all the wrongs. When it was time for the primary election, his enemies tried to stop him from getting the ticket but like his name; he remained lucky, defeating his enemies to win the ticket. 

     On Sunday, November 17, Aiyedatiwa was announced the winner of the Saturday, November 16 Ondo State Guber election defeating his rival who is also a former Deputy Governor to Governor Akeredolu Ajayi Agboola with a wide voting margin winning all 18 local governments. Aiyedatiwa will now spend a fresh four years as governor of Ondo where he has laid down n plan for strategic development and economic prosperity for the oil-rich state. Aiyedatiwa has vowed to leave Ondo State way better than he met it and has also extended an olive branch to those who never believed in him for a collaborative government to put Ondo State on the map as one of the best states in Nigeria.  

  • Don’t misplace people’s trust, Ondo Obas tell Aiyedatiwa

    Don’t misplace people’s trust, Ondo Obas tell Aiyedatiwa

    Traditional rulers in Ondo State have advised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to honor the trust placed in him by the citizens who voted for him in last Saturday’s governorship election. 

    The traditional rulers expressed that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s victory was not surprising, given his performance during the 11 months since he took office. 

    They made this statement under the auspices of the 130 Crown Obas, with their Chairman, Oba Samuel Adeoye Edema, the Molokun of Atijere in Ilaje Local Government Area, signing the statement.

    In their message, the Obas congratulated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his Deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, on their electoral success. 

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa: Exemplary leadership has earned you victory – CAN

    They urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to engage with other aspirants for the benefit of the state and called on other candidates to collaborate with him.

    The statement read: “The victory of Aiyedatiwa was a divine agenda and of grace.

    “We offered prayers for the success of the Governor before the election. We know he was the best choice to continue his good job for the state.

    “Governor Aiyedatiwa has shown respect for the traditional institution. This, he has demonstrated, in some of his public and private engagements with us.

  • Aiyedatiwa: Exemplary leadership has earned you victory – CAN

    Aiyedatiwa: Exemplary leadership has earned you victory – CAN

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has said that Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s victory in the Saturday’s election was due to his exemplary leadership and dedication to the people of the state.

    Rev. Father Anselm Ologunwa, the Ondo State Chairman of CAN, stated this in a statement on Monday in Akure.

    “Your exemplary leadership and dedication to the people of Ondo State have earned you this mandate, and we are confident that you will continue to serve with integrity and wisdom.

    “As you begin this new chapter in your tenure, we pray that God grants you the strength, courage, and insight needed to tackle the challenges facing our beloved state.

    “We trust that your administration will prioritize the welfare and well-being of all citizens, regardless of their background or faith,” Ologunwa said.

    According to him, the impressive track record of the governor from his days as deputy governor to his tenure as acting governor, has demonstrated the governor’s capacity for effective governance.

    It added that the governor’s acumen and his years of experience in various sectors would undoubtedly serve the state well in this economic time.

    Read Also: Bajowa congratulates Aiyedatiwa, says victory carries enormous responsibilities to people

    “We appreciate your commitment to the development of Ondo State and look forward to collaborating with your administration to promote peace, unity, and progress.

    “As CAN, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that foster interfaith harmony and promote the common good.

    “Once again, please accept our heartfelt congratulations on your electoral victory,” it stated.

    (NAN)

  • NANS Deputy Coordinator Ademola hails Aiyedatiwa’s victory

    NANS Deputy Coordinator Ademola hails Aiyedatiwa’s victory

    The Deputy Coordinator, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone D, (Southwest) Comrade Adegoke Ademola, has feigned with Ondo Governor Luck Aiyedatiwa on his victory in the just-concluded poll.

    He described Aiyedatiwa’s victory as an incredible achievement, direct reflection of his resilience, determination and unwavering commitment to the progress of Ondo state.

    A statement by Ademola stated that Aiyedatiwa’s triumph was not just a personal success but a victory for every Ondo citizen who has long yearned for transformative leadership in the state. 

    According to him, Aiyedatiwa’s victory was a victory that embodies spirit of perseverance through adversity.

    He said: “In a political landscape often marked by challenges, you have proven that with strong will, vision, and dedication, the aspirations of the people can be realized.

    “As the Deputy Coordinator of NANS Southwest, I must without equivocation, acknowledge your profound respect for the voices of the younger generation.

    “You have shown that leadership goes beyond governance—it is about building bridges, inspiring hope, and working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that every citizen’s needs are met.

    “We are confident that your administration will prioritize the welfare of students, the improvement of educational standards, and the creation of opportunities for the next generation of leaders.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s SSA, NANS set for International students day

    “As you take on the mantle of leadership, we offer our unwavering support and stand ready to work alongside you in building a state where young people can thrive and contribute to its growth. 

    “We look forward to the policies you will implement, the reforms you will bring, and the opportunities you will create. May your time in office be marked by transparency, accountability, and above all, a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.

    “Once again, congratulations on this monumental achievement. We wish you the best of luck in the many responsibilities ahead, and we are confident that under your leadership, our state will experience progress, peace, and prosperity. Together, we will build a brighter future for all.”

  • Bajowa congratulates Aiyedatiwa, says victory carries enormous responsibilities to people

    Bajowa congratulates Aiyedatiwa, says victory carries enormous responsibilities to people

    Retired Maj.-Gen. Olu Bajowa said on Monday that the victory of Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the governorship poll on Saturday carried with it enormous responsibilities to improve the lives of people in Ondo State.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) polled 366,781 votes to defeat his closest rival, former deputy governor, Mr. Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 117,845 votes.

    In an interview with NAN in Igbotako, Okitipupa LGA, Bajowa, while congratulating Aiyedatiwa on his victory at the poll, urged him to make life more meaningful and abundant for the masses by fighting against hunger, poverty and unemployment.

    He also urged the governor to provide adequate security, transform agricultural, health and education sectors, and prioritise regular power supply for the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

    The former Federal Permanent Secretary also said that the overwhelming victory of Aiyedatiwa at the just concluded poll was a testament of his wide acceptance by the people of the state.

    “I join all well-wishers to congratulate you on your well-deserved election as “God’s anointed” Executive Governor of Ondo State.

    Read Also: Ondo 2024: Democracy is taking strong footing in Nigeria – Bajowa

    “The people have spoken, loud and clear because your outstanding and overwhelming performance with wide margin at the polls, is a testimony of your popular acceptance by the citizens of the Sunshine State.

    “As the old proverb says: “Vox Populi, Vox Dei” (The voice of the people is the voice of the gods). Therefore, by God’s grace, you are the Executive Governor of the state for the next four years.

    “Also importantly, reactivation of all the moribund industries, with serious attention to road infrastructure network development as well as the issues of the developments of our solid minerals, bitumen, oil, fisheries and the state deep seaport project,” Bajowa said.

    The former army general and Jagunmolu of Ikaleland said that the governor could count on him and the entire Bajowa royal family for support, adding that he was loyal to his administration.

    Bajowa also prayed for God’s divine protection, guidance and good health for Aiyedatiwa’s successful tenure to fulfil his electioneering promises.

    (NAN)

  • Why Aiyedatiwa secured total victory in governorship election

    Why Aiyedatiwa secured total victory in governorship election

    • APC candidate wins in all 18 councils
    • •PDP rejects results
    • Tinubu, Ganduje, governors hail victory

    The disarray in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is a major factor that gave Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa total victory in Saturday’s Ondo State governorship election, it was learnt.

    Other factors include the unity of All Progressives Congress (APC) senior figures in the states, including former aspirants, and the belief that Aiyedatiwa is spending one term, which made likely aspirants to line up behind him.

    From Abuja, elected lawmakers such as Senator Olajide Ipinsagba (Ondo North), Rep Donald Ojogo and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo rallied overwhelming support for the governor.

    External support, especially from APC governors, also contributed to the victory.

    Many chieftains of the PDP, it was learnt, refused to support Agboola Ajayi’s candidacy, because they wanted to pay him back for defecting from the PDP to the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) when he lost the ticket to Eyitayo Jegede (SA) in 2020.

    Ajayi, who was then the deputy governor, contested the election on ZLP ticket and lost. His defection, was believed to have weakened the PDP in that election.

    Aiyedatiwa was able to reconcile aggrieved leaders, especially those that contested for the ticket, including Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Wale Akinterinwa, Chief Olusola Oke (SAN) and Princess Oladunni Odu.

    Many politicians from other senatorial districts, including some leaders of the PDP eyeing the governor’s seat, supported  Aiyedatiwa because he has a single term of four years.

    Political leaders from Ondo Central took the lead to support Aiyedatiwa because they felt it will be their turn to produce the next governor.

    The Returning Officer Prof. Akinwumi Olayemi Durotimi, Vice Chancellor of Federal University, Lokoja declared Aiyedatiwa victory yesterday afternoon with 366, 781 votes to Ajayi’s 117,845.

    Aiyedatiwa won in all 18 local government areas  – an unprecedented feat in the democratic history of the state since its creation in 1976.

    Aiyedatiwa is the first governor in the state to serve as Deputy Governor, Acting Governor and now an elected Governor. His fresh mandate will begin in February.

    He became acting governor when his principal, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, became critically ill and when he died, Aiyedatiwa was sworn to complete his tenure.

    He won the APC ticket and eventually won the election.

    The election was adjudged peaceful and fair by observers. It was also largely violence free.

    Aiyedatiwa said he was humbled by the renewal of his mandate by voters.

    He waved the olive branch to his rivals in the opposition parties, urging them to team up with him to build a prosperous state.

    The governor spoke with reporters, shortly after he was declared winner.

    Aiyedatiwa made history as the first person from a small riverine community, Obenla, in Ilaje local  government to win election as governor.

    According to the Electoral commission, 508,963 voters were accredited, 12, 896 votes were rejected while 497,077 were actual votes cast in the election.

    Prof. Akinwumi said Aiyedatiwa meet all the constitutional requirements to be declared as winner.

    Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), Dapo Abiodun (Odun), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Bassey Out (Cross River),  Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Babagana Zulum (Borno) were on hand to support Aiyedatiwa.

    The party leadership, led by National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and National Secretary Ajibola Basiru were also in Akure to back the governor.

    ‘Let’s build Ondo State together’

    Aiyedatiwa urged the opposition parties to join hands with him to develop the state.

    In his acceptance speech, he promised to run an all-inclusive government.

    The governor commended INEC, security agencies and other stakeholders for their diligence.

    He thanked President Bola Tinubu for providing exemplary leadership by ensuring a level playing ground.

    Aiyedatiwa dedicated his victory, firstly to God, and secondly to the memory of his former boss, the late Akeredolu.

    He said: “As your governor, I promise to continue to run an inclusive and participatory government, where every citizen has a voice and an opportunity to contribute to our collective progress.

    “We will continue to prioritise the welfare of our people, foster economic growth, and ensure that our state remains a beacon of hope and prosperity for generations to come.

    “Now that the elections are over, it is time to rededicate ourselves to the service of our dear state.

    “I therefore want to extend a hand of fellowship to the opposition parties and to invite you to collaborate with us in the onerous task of building a better Ondo State for the overall good of our people.

    “Let us put aside our differences and work together to create a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our communities.”

    Ganduje said the push to take over Oyo and Osun states, currently controlled by the PDP, had started.

    Ganduje said he was happy that the people of Ondo state showed their love for the party through their votes.

    Tinubu congratulates Aiyedatiwa on victory

    President Tinubu congratulated Aiyedatiwa on his victory.

    The President also commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of the election, praising the maturity displayed by all political actors throughout the process.

    In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu lauded the 17 political parties and their candidates for their sense of purpose during the campaigns and the election, attributing the success of the poll to the civility demonstrated by the people of Ondo State.

    He urged stakeholders to ensure that this spirit of orderliness continues in post-election activities.

    President Tinubu described the election as a “litmus test” for the INEC, commending the electoral body for its early preparation, efficient deployment of staff and materials, and the swift handling of the process.

    He praised INEC for successfully uploading over 98 per cent of results on election day, which he said reinforced public confidence in the institution.

    He also extended his appreciation to security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force, National Civil Defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps, National Youth Service Corps, and the military, for their professionalism in maintaining peace and order during the elections.

    For candidates dissatisfied with the election outcome, the President urged them to utilise the judicial system to seek redress, emphasizing the importance of adhering to democratic principles.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa’s victory confidence vote in Tinubu’s leadership, says Oyebanji

    PDP rejects results, calls for review

    The PDP, despite suffering a massive defeat, rejected the result.

    It promised “take appropriate action” after reviewing the election outcome.

    In a statement yesterday by its spokesman Debo Ologunagba, the PDP said the poll “runs short of all expectations and requirements of a free, fair and credible election.”

    The statement reads: “The Peoples Democratic Party and indeed all lovers of democracy in Nigeria and across the world have just witnessed the worst election conducted by INEC.

    “The election witnessed the height of electoral swindle, deceit and manipulation allegedly perpetrated by the APC.

    “The poll witnessed widespread election merchandising, monetisation and barefaced vote buying and voter suppression.”

    Ologunagba said Nigerians and the international community should take “serious action” to stem all forms of election manipulation and preserve the nation’s democracy.

  • Aiyedatiwa’s victory confidence vote in Tinubu’s leadership, says Oyebanji

    Aiyedatiwa’s victory confidence vote in Tinubu’s leadership, says Oyebanji

    Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated his Ondo State counterpart, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on his victory at the Saturday’s governorship election.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa, who was the flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 16, 2024 election, was declared winner by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) shortly after the conclusion of collation of results on Sunday. 

    Governor Oyebanji in a statement on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the electoral triumph of Governor Aiyedatiwa as an endorsement of good governance under the APC administration in Ondo State as well as a vote of confidence in the leadership of the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

    The Ekiti Governor expressed gratitude to the electorate in Ondo State for keeping their trust in the ruling party, the APC, based on verifiable indices of good governance since the party came to power in the neighbouring state in 2016.

    Governor Oyebanji pointed out that the victory recorded by Governor Aiyedatiwa and the APC has put a fresh challenge on the Ondo Governor to do more for the people of the state who defied the odds to give him a fresh mandate. 

    Similarly, he said the electoral victory shows that Nigerians appreciate the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and have unwavering confidence that the current socioeconomic policies and programs of the government would yield the desired results, leading to irreversible progress, development and economic prosperity for all. 

    He commended the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; the Progressive Governors’ Forum, the party’s National Campaign Council, National Assembly members, elected and appointed political office holders and the entire party faithful for their hard work which contributed to the electoral success.

    Governor Oyebanji hailed the people of Ondo State for conducting themselves in peaceful and orderly manner which resulted in the overall success of the governorship poll across the length and breadth of the state.

    Read Also: BREAKING: INEC declares Aiyedatiwa winner of Ondo election

    He specifically commended  indigenes of Ekiti State resident in Ondo State for heeding his clarion to use their votes to retain Governor Aiyedatiwa in office expressing optimism that they would reap the bountiful harvest of good governance from the new administration. 

    The Governor also praised the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the improvements recorded in the Ondo poll especially in prompt release of result from the polling units and the collation exercise.

    Governor Oyebanji further commended the security agencies for their professionalism, which  according to him, contributed largely to the peaceful conduct of the election from the commencement of voting exercise till the official declaration of results.

    He urged the newly elected Governor to remain magnanimous in victory and reach out to his opponents in the election with a view to working with them to deliver dividends of democracy to the people. 

    “On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate my dear brother, Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa on this well deserved victory. While wishing him a successful tenure, we look forward to a more strategic partnership with his administration for the benefit of the citizens of the two sister states. 

    “Hearty congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his exemplary leadership and for sanitizing the electoral process. Big congratulations to our party, the APC and a big congratulations to the good people of Ondo State who have voted for continuity of good governance under APC”, the statement added.