…frowns on aso ebi uniform dresses, calls for prayers

Tinubu, Adelami, others pour accolades on Gov for ‘exceptional performance in one year’

By Bukola Olamona,Josephine Oguntoyinbo & Saheed Ibrahim

Ondo State Governor, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has cancelled his 60th birthday celebrations to honour the late Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tayo Oluwatuyi, who died on January 4, 2025 following injuries sustained in an auto crash.

This is just as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended warm wishes to Governor Aiyedatiwa, who clocks 60 years today.

In a show of respect, the governor has urged his well-wishers to cancel all birthday events and rather focus on prayers for the departed SSG and the state.

“The passing of this individual has left a profound sense of grief not only within the immediate family but also across the government.

“His position as Secretary to the State Government placed him in close connection with nearly every Ministry, Department, and Agency (MDA),” Aiyedatiwa remarked, highlighting the SSG’s extensive contributions to governance.

Aiyedatiwa expressed deep sorrow, praising the late SSG’s humility and dedication to public service.

“Having served as a Local Government Chairman, a Commissioner at various times, and even as SSG before his reappointment, his extensive experience and deep involvement in governance were undeniable.

“His absence is already being deeply felt, and it is clear that we will miss him,” he stressed.

In line with the sombre mood, the governor announced that there would be no flamboyant  birthday celebrations.

“The beautiful aso oke, gele and fila ( native embroideries)  that many of you have purchased will not go to waste.

“Instead, they will be used for the inauguration ceremony. We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time,” a Government House statement read.

Aiyedatiwa’s decision to scale down the celebrations reflects the gravity of the situation, with only a church thanksgiving service retained for the occasion, as confirmed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s political journey, accomplishments in governance, and contributions to grassroots development.

Tinubu further lauded Aiyedatiwa’s 2024 electoral victory, which paved the way for impactful projects in the health and education sectors.

Marking this milestone, Tinubu wished Aiyedatiwa good health, wisdom, and continued success in his leadership.

The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, extolled the virtues of his principal, describing Governor Aiyedatiwa as a leader divinely ordained and blessed with God’s uncommon grace.

Adelami, while celebrating the governor, highlighted his boss’ dedication to humanity and strong moral character.

“As someone who works closely with him, I can confidently say Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa is a thoroughbred ‘Omoluabi’, a visionary leader, a gentleman par excellence, and above all, a God-fearing politician.”

He added, “This is why we say Ondo State is lucky to have him as the Chief Executive who will pilot us to the promised land.

“On behalf of my family, I want to sincerely thank God for his life and wish him many more celebrations in Jesus’ name,” Adelami remarked.

In recognition of his leadership, the Ondo State House of Assembly also expressed admiration for the governor’s achievements.

Chief Olatunji Oshati, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, commended Aiyedatiwa’s “exceptional performance” over the past year.

“His virtue of simplicity, foresightedness, and determination in pursuit of a better Ondo State that works for all is acknowledged,” Oshati said.

The lawmaker also lauded the governor’s remarkable contributions to the state’s progress, noting that his leadership has had a positive and lasting impact on Ondo’s citizens.

“As he celebrates his 60th birthday, we acknowledge not only his service to the people of Ondo State but also his deep sense of duty, compassion, and responsibility toward making our state a better place for future generations,” Oshati remarked.

On behalf of the 10th Ondo State House of Assembly, Oshati further wished the governor continued success in all his endeavours, affirming that Aiyedatiwa’s leadership remained an inspiration to all.

The leadership of the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Ondo State Chapter, also extended warm greetings to the governor on his 60th birthday.

In a statement by its Chairman, Comrade Adewale Bolarinwa, the association lauded Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to the development of Ondo State, describing his leadership as a source of inspiration.

Bolarinwa highlighted Aiyedatiwa’s integrity and dedication, noting that his contributions to public service have significantly benefited the people of Ondo State and the nation at large.

He characterised Aiyedatiwa’s leadership as embodying honesty, dedication, and selflessness, asserting that the governor’s efforts had been instrumental in advancing the state’s progress.

“As Ondo State celebrates this milestone, we stand in solidarity with Governor Aiyedatiwa,” the association stated, offering their support and best wishes on this significant occasion.

The RTEAN leadership, in the same vein, reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the governor to further drive the state’s development, describing his 60th birthday as a moment to reflect on his impactful service as a public servant and leader.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, a longstanding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), began his political career with the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in 2011.

His ascent from Deputy Governor in 2021 to Governor in 2023, succeeding the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, underscores his years of service and commitment to public administration.

 Before becoming Governor, Aiyedatiwa served as a Commissioner representing Ondo State at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), where he played a significant role in advancing grassroots development initiatives.