By Adedotun Ajayi

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Friday at the cocoa conference hall, Alagbaka, inaugurated all the twelve newly appointed commissioners, who were recently confirmed by the state House of Assembly.

The newly inaugurated commissioners are Pastor Segun Ayerin, Mr Olaolu Akindolire, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, Dr Banji Ajaka, Mr Boye Ologbese, Mr Sunday Akinwalire, Deaconess Lola Fagbemi, Mr Saka Yusuf Ogunleye, Mr Rasheed Badmus, Mr Olayato Aribo, Mr Adewale Akinlosotu and Barr Gbenga Olaniyi.

In light of the daunting tasks ahead, Governor Aiyedatiwa justified the expansion of the State Executive Council, welcoming the newly inaugurated commissioners as individuals poised to contribute significantly to the state’s development agenda. He urged them to justify their appointments through dedicated service, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to accelerated development and good governance.

The governor said; “Let me congratulate the newly inaugurated appointees for being worthy of consideration as Honourable Commissioners in Ondo State. Some of you are returning, while others are new Commissioners. In the main, you have a duty to justify your appointment or reappointment as the case may be. I must inform you that this administration is in a hurry to deliver on its mandate and make life more meaningful to the people”

“The torch of accelerated development that we hold aloft in trust for the people is irreversible. You must guard your loins and hit the ground running in your various offices. You must foster a good working relationship with the workers, especially the Permanent Secretaries and other Accounting Officers.

“Let us bear in mind that the government and people of Ondo State are united in their thirst for credible performance, development and good governance. You must excuse corruption or any act that is not nurturing to good governance and overriding public interest. Thus, I like to implore all friends, families and well-wishers of the new appointees to refrain from putting undue pressures on them so that they can concentrate and discharge their duties in the overall best interest of the State”

The governor expressed profound enthusiasm in fulfilling his duty to the people of Ondo State. He emphasized the significance of the event as the third in a series aimed at enhancing good governance in line with the administration’s mandate. Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated the administration’s commitment to prioritize the interests of the people, ensuring that their needs are diligently attended to.

Acknowledging the unwavering support of the people of Ondo State, the Governor praised their patriotism and dedication, emphasizing their role as a constant source of inspiration. He credited their support as the driving force behind the government’s achievements in delivering the dividends of democracy.

Highlighting the administration’s accomplishments in various sectors, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the strides made in addressing salary arrears, gratuity payments, employment opportunities, infrastructure development, and security enhancement.

He stressed the administration’s focus on collaboration with federal and corporate entities to stimulate economic growth and ensure food security in the state.

“Apart from our own home grown initiatives in setting up an Agriculture and Food Security Committee that is working round the clock, we are also into an effective collaboration with the Federal Government and other corporate entities to stimulate food production, availability and affordability in the State”

“And in keeping with the dynamics of security, we are rejigging and fortifying our security architectures such that the security of lives and welfare of the people remain on the front-burner of policy implementation. We must not compromise our enviable frontline place among the league of the safest States in the nation” he added

Governor Aiyedatiwa also commended the Ondo State House of Assembly for its role in promoting good governance and thanked the people of Ondo State for their participation in democratic processes.

He called for peaceful conduct during the upcoming gubernatorial primary elections, stressing the importance of upholding democratic principles and avoiding divisive actions.

“Similarly, I must thank you all, the good and law-abiding people of Ondo State for your positive engagements in the on-going democratic processes in our State towards the impending gubernatorial primary elections across Political Parties. Progressively, these processes will lead us to the gubernatorial election in November this year”

“The beauty of democracy is the freedom of choice. As we proceed in the electioneering activities, we owe it a duty to ourselves, the unborn children and the State at large to conduct ourselves in a most peaceful and rancor-free manner”

“I like to enjoin all political gladiators and their followers to refrain from stoking the embers of discord with campaigns of calumning, unwarranted mudslinging and blackmails. We must avoid all acts that can promote violence and make us less-meritorious in the eye of the world. I wish our State the best and nothing but the best” he added

Earlier in his welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi, emphasized the importance of wholehearted commitment from the newly inaugurated commissioners. He stressed that their forthcoming responsibilities transcend mere formalities, symbolizing principles of justice and equity.

Oluwatuyi urged them to labor tirelessly, demonstrating unwavering dedication, reminding them that the authority vested in their positions is not for personal enrichment but for the welfare of the constituents they serve.

Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated commissioners, Dr Banji Ajaka appreciated Gov Aiyedatiwa for the trust reposed in them, with a promise not to disappoint and support the government of ondo state.

Also in attendance is the deputy governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, the secretary to the state government, Tayo Oluwatuyi, Chief of staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of service, Bayo Philips, Chief judge of Ondo state, Olusegun Odusola, APC chairman Ondo state, Ade Adetimehin, members of the state executive council, Traditional rulers, Religious leaders and Party leaders.