By Adedotun Ajayi

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, yesterday led top government officials and members of the State Executive Council on a condolence visit to Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye.

While expressing condolence on behalf of the state government, Aiyedatiwa particularly paid tribute to late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, acknowledging the monumental legacy left behind by the departed leader. 

He emphasized the continuity of governance and assured that the vacuum left by the late governor would be filled, even as he expressed commitment to ensuring a seamless administration and the completion of ongoing projects initiated by Akeredolu.

“We came to pay condolence because we know he was your son. We commiserate with the entire Owo kingdom because he was the son of the soil. Although he is gone, his legacies remain. Even we here, we are his handwork; he lives on.

He died in office, so the state will give him a befitting burial. Such tragedy won’t befall our dear state again,” the Governor prayed. 

In response, Olowo of Owo expressed gratitude to Aiyedatiwa and the State Executive Council members for their visit.

The king commended the late Governor Akeredolu’s dedication to the state’s development and acknowledged the hand of fate in his passing.

“God took Akeredolu which will always be a loss to the entire country, but we also thank God because Aiyedatiwa is a blessing from God too.

“We want to assure you that the entire people of Owo kingdom will support your administration. The success of your administration will be our top priority.

“You have assured us that the uncompleted projects the late governor, you would complete them. We put our trust in you, and may God help you in achieving everything,” the monarch added.

The governor also extended condolence visit to the Olijebu of Ijebu-Owo, Oba Kofoworola Olatunbosun Ojomo Aruliwo.

The Governor said, “We have come to pay our condolence because the late governor was a son every father would be proud of, both home and abroad. It is a great loss, especially for the people of Ijebu-Owo because this is his hometown.”

Reflecting on Akeredolu’s accomplishments, Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted the late governor’s far-reaching influence and notable achievements, including initiatives such as the establishment of the Amotekun security agency aimed at securing lives and property. He assured the community of a befitting state burial for the departed leader.

In response, Oba Kofoworola Olatunbosun Ojomo Aruliwo expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of Ijebu-Owo and the larger Owo kingdom for the governor’s visit. 

The king reflected on Akeredolu’s enduring legacy and lauded his contributions to the state’s progress.

“We appreciate you for coming to commiserate with us on the demise of our son Rotimi Akeredolu. He did his best while he was alive, and it is the legacies left behind that would make us always remember Akeredolu, we pray God guide your path on this new journey as the governor of ondo state”, he added.