*Says It Is To Fulfill Akeredolu’s Wish
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has officially declared his intention to contest the state governorship election slated for November 16, 2024.
Aiyedatiwa, who addressed supporters at the Gani Fawehinmi Arcade, Akure, on Tuesday, expressed interest to contest the poll on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The governor said that it was the wish of the late Akeredolu that he (Aiyedatiwa) succeeded him as the governor of the state.
“Just about this time three years ago, our late leader and former Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON and my humble self as Deputy Governor, mounted the soap box to seek your support to govern this blessed state. You all gladly gave your support and ensured our victory under a joint ticket of the APC.
“Distinguished citizens and party faithful, I must re-echo what our late leader had always wished for in his lifetime. It was his wish that I succeed him, not in death though, as the next governor of the state.
“All was with one conviction and implicit confidence in me to carry on the torch of accelerated development which he lit first in 2017 and later renewed under a joint ticket for both of us in the 2021 gubernatorial election.
“My mission would focus on key developmental issues to alleviate poverty, banish hunger and make Ondo State self-sustaining. My development agenda is to emplace a State Economic Empowerment Development Strategy (SEEDS).
“Today, I offer myself to lead, not to rule, to respect your wishes, not to dominate you, and to lead by example of humility, good character and empathy, which I have demonstrated in office since 2021.”
