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Aiyedatiwa begins LG campaign tour with stakeholders’ engagement in Akure South

…promises more infrastructural projects in the state capital

…visits Oda, Ilekun, others

By Adedotun Ajayi

Ahead of the November 16 gubernatorial election in Ondo State, the local government campaign tour of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa kicked off on Friday with community and stakeholders’ engagements in Akure, the state capital.

The Governor visited the Deji and paramount ruler of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, to seek his royal blessing and engage with traditional leaders of the community.

Pix: Ayodele Suberu

Governor Aiyedatiwa, who is the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was accompanied to the palace by his deputy and running mate, Dr Olayide Adelami, and top party leaders led by the chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin.

Addressing the traditional rulers from Akure South Local Government, the Governor promised the people of Akure Kingdom that he would initiate more infrastructural projects, particularly road construction across the kingdom, if elected.

The Governor, who noted that Akure had been a peaceful city, said his administration was committed to its beautification, making the city more attractive as the state capital.

“Akure remains one of the most peaceful state capitals in Nigeria. Any development in the state for good must begin in Akure. We have been doing what you asked for, and we will continue to do more,” the Governor said.

Speaking on behalf of the monarchs, high chiefs, and Olus in Akure, the Deji of Akure, along with Oba Luyi Rotimi, the Olujigba of Ijigba, Adekunle Ajanaku, the Olu of Okelisa, and Senior High Chief Segun Adedipe, the Elemo of Akure, emphasised the need for a peaceful election, the installation of more streetlights, agro-allied empowerment for farmers, and the development of rural roads in the area.

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The monarchs unanimously endorsed Governor Aiyedatiwa as the best candidate for the job, pledging their unwavering support and assuring him of their backing in the upcoming election.

Responding to the demands raised by the traditional leaders, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured them that their requests had not only been heard but were already being addressed.

He said: “Most of the requests have already been implemented, and others are well underway. We understand the importance of accessible roads for rural communities and the role of adequate lighting in enhancing security. That is why we are ensuring no area is left behind in our development agenda.

“We cannot overemphasise the importance of sanitation in public spaces, particularly in our markets where a large part of our economy thrives. We want our traders to operate in a clean, healthy environment, which is why we are constructing public toilets in key markets across the state.”

Earlier in the day, the Governor inaugurated the Owode Akure Community Project under the ONDO CARES initiative. The project includes the construction of six classrooms at St. Peter’s Primary School, Akure, aimed at creating a conducive learning environment for students.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also visited the Nepa car park to engage with the Iyalojas, artisans, and leaders of the non-indigene communities. He also visited Ilesha Motor Park to interact with traders, as well as Oda, Aponmu, and Gaga communities.

In a unified voice, these groups acknowledged the positive impact of his administration, commending the visible progress in infrastructure, security, and economic empowerment. They assured the Governor of their 100% support in the upcoming election.

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The Governor continued his grassroots campaign with visits to Oda, Ilekun, Ijigba, and Aponmu communities, engaging with traditional rulers, high chiefs, Olus, women chiefs, youth, and other stakeholders.

His visits were marked by warm receptions, reflecting the strong connection between his administration and the grassroots.

During the engagement, Olaniran Oladayiye, speaking on behalf of the youth in the Oda community, expressed the community’s confidence in the Governor’s leadership and assured him of their collective support in the upcoming election.

“Your Excellency, the youth of Oda community recognise the progress you have brought to our state. We are fully behind you and ready to mobilise support to ensure your victory on November 16,” Oladayiye stated, praising the Governor’s focus on security, education, and opportunities for young people.

Chief Mrs Mopelola Juliet, the Regent of Oda, speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, addressed the community’s infrastructure needs, specifically the ongoing road project in Oda. She expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts thus far and urged the Governor to ensure its prompt completion.

“The road project is already bringing hope to our people, and we are eagerly waiting for its completion. It will make life easier for farmers, traders, and residents,” she remarked.

She also added that the traditional rulers remain committed to supporting the Governor’s election campaign and promoting peace throughout the electoral process.

Oloye Iyaloja Titilayo Jerry, the women leader in Aponmu community, passionately highlighted the pressing need for agricultural support. Speaking on behalf of the women and farmers in the community, she stressed the importance of access to fertilisers to boost crop yields and enhance food production.

The leaders and stakeholders expressed satisfaction with the Governor’s plans and reaffirmed their full support for his campaign.

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They pledged to mobilise their communities for the election, confident in Aiyedatiwa’s ability to continue leading the state towards progress.

In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa appreciated the warm reception and acknowledged the community’s contributions to the state’s progress.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to completing the Oda road and other infrastructure projects in the area.

“I understand how crucial this road is to your daily lives, and I assure you that its completion is a top priority. We are not just building roads; we are connecting communities and creating new economic opportunities,” the Governor said.

Aiyedatiwa also pledged to expand youth-focused programmes, promising to introduce more skill acquisition initiatives, financial grants, and employment opportunities.

“The youth are our strength, and my administration will continue to invest in you. Together, we will build a future where every young person in this state can thrive,” he declared.

Addressing the concern about empowering farmers with fertiliser in Aponmu community, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to farmers across the state.

In closing, Governor Aiyedatiwa called on the chiefs and community members to promote peace and unity as the election approaches.

“Our state’s peace and stability are non-negotiable. I urge all of you to ensure that this election is peaceful and that we set an example for others to follow,” he stated.

The Governor’s campaign trail also included a stopover at the Ilesha Garage Motor Park, where he engaged with transport union members and traders from the Igbo community trading at the park. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving their welfare and supporting their livelihoods.

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