By NewsMata
At his inauguration as the seventh governor of Ondo State on Monday, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has expressed deep sorrow that his predecessor, the late Arakunring Rotimi Akeredolu, who had predicted his succeeding him, was not alive to witness his swearing-in ceremony.
Newsmata.com.ng recalls that Akeredolu, 67, died December 27, 2023, in a German hospital after protracted battle with leukaemia and prostate cancer.
Speaking after he was sworn in, Governor Aiyedatiwa paid glowing tribute to Akeredolu’s visionary leadership and tireless efforts in developing the state.He said, “Permit me to express special gratitude to my immediate predecessor, our visionary leader, the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, who worked tirelessly to develop our state for about seven years before he took a glorious bow to join the Saints Triumphant.
“We must not forget this courageous and personable leader who literally emptied himself in the service of Ondo State and Nigeria. His legacy continues to inspire us to build upon the foundations he laid.
”Acknowledging that Akeredolu’s public and prophetic declaration at his second-term inauguration ceremony four years ago set the tone for his eventual emergence as governor, Governor Aiyedatiwa said, “I am particularly indebted to him for choosing me as his Deputy and for his public and undisguised prophetic declaration at about this time, on this same podium, four years ago. That declaration must be appreciated for setting the tone for me as his successor to the office of Governor.
”He regretted that the former governor was not alive to witness the fulfillment of what he had foretold, just as he emphasised continuity, gratitude, and a commitment to building on Akeredolu’s legacy for the benefit of Ondo State.
“I must say that I am deeply pained that this great leader who saw tomorrow is not here with us to witness and savour this auspicious occasion, which marks the fulfillment of what God spoke through him.“May the gentle soul of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, continue to rest in peace (Amen).
”Aiyedatiwa described the moment of his inauguration as a crucial point in Ondo State’s history, reflecting on the struggles of the past, the sacrifices of heroes, and the resilience of the people.
“This moment is very pivotal in our history as a people. It reminds us of the struggles of our past, the sacrifices of our heroes, and the resilience of our people.
”Savouring his inauguration, Governor Aiyedatiwa paid tribute to the founding fathers and former governors of Ondo State for their contributions to its growth and development over the past 49 years.
“In celebrating this significant milestone, I pay glowing tributes to all the founding fathers and former governors of our great state, who have contributed immensely to her growth and development over the past 49 years.
“Their selfless service, vision, and leadership have laid the groundwork for the progress we enjoy today.”