Ondo State witnessed a historic political transition yesterday as Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa was sworn in as the seventh democratically elected governor, marking the first time in the state’s history that an incumbent is succeeded by a member of the same political party.

The state chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ade Adetimehin, described the event as a milestone in Ondo’s political development, underscoring its significance for party stability and governance continuity.

Adetimehin pointed out that previous administrations had struggled to maintain party succession, referencing past governors such as Chief Adekunle Ajasin of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and the late Chief Bamidele Olomilua, whose parties failed to retain power.

He also cited the cases of Chief Adebayo Adefarati and Chief Olusegun Agagu, who were unable to secure continuity for their respective parties.

He attributed Aiyedatiwa’s emergence to the foundation laid by the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, hailing the development as a reflection of the APC’s resilience and stability.

“Our party is proud of this historic feat, particularly after securing a landslide victory in the last governorship election, where we won in all 18 local government areas and secured victory in 202 out of 203 wards,” Adetimehin stated.

While acknowledging the significance of the achievement, he stressed the challenges ahead and urged both party members and residents of Ondo State to support the new administration to ensure governance continuity.

“We must justify the trust and confidence placed in us. The APC stands firmly behind Governor Aiyedatiwa and will offer all necessary support to ensure he delivers on his mandate,” he added.

Adetimehin expressed confidence in Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, invoking a biblical reference to reassure party members and residents of a promising future under the new administration