By Adedotun Ajayi

|

The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, had a busy week filled with significant engagements centred on governance, public health, legal matters, and the commemoration of a historical figure.

Governor Aiyedatiwa commenced the week by leading an awareness walk in Akure, organised by the Ondo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ODSACA) to mark the 2024 World AIDS Day. The event, themed “Take the Right Path: Sustain the HIV Response and Stop HIV Among Children to End AIDS in Nigeria by 2030,” emphasised HIV/AIDS prevention and support for those living with the virus.

The Governor highlighted key interventions by the state government, including the procurement of HIV test kits for health facilities, educational programmes in schools, and media campaigns aimed at promoting prevention and combating stigma.

He called for collective action from civil society organisations, religious groups, and other stakeholders to achieve the goal of zero new infections by 2030.

Dr Dayo Adegbulu, Project Manager of ODSACA, echoed this call, emphasising the importance of fighting discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS and urging citizens to report cases of stigmatisation.

The week also witnessed a significant legal milestone as the Federal High Court dismissed a suit filed by the PDP candidate, Mr Agboola Ajayi, challenging the qualifications of Governor Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, in the November 16 governorship election.

The court ruled that the case lacked merit, with Justice Toyin Bolaji Adegoke stating that it was filed outside the time stipulated by the Electoral Act and that the PDP candidate lacked the legal standing to challenge the qualifications of the APC candidates.

Governor Aiyedatiwa welcomed the judgment, describing it as a victory for democracy and expressing relief at the resolution of a matter he regarded as an unnecessary distraction. He reiterated his commitment to focusing on governance for the people of Ondo State.

On Wednesday, Governor Aiyedatiwa mourned the passing of Group Captain Ita David Ikpeme (rtd.), the first Military Administrator of Ondo State, who died at the age of 89. The Governor paid glowing tributes to Ikpeme for his foundational contributions to the state’s development between 1976 and 1978.

In his condolence message, he described the late Ikpeme as a statesman and devoted leader whose legacy remains embedded in the state’s history. The Governor assured the family of the government’s support in organising a befitting burial and prayed for comfort for the bereaved family.

Governor Aiyedatiwa’s week was characterised by impactful activities reflecting his administration’s commitment to public health, justice, and the recognition of legacy.