Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State received unprecedented support from the people of Owo when he was on campaign tour of the local government on Monday.
It was warm welcome from traditional leaders, community leaders, and key stakeholders at the palace of the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye when the campaign train of the governor hit the ancient city ahead of the gubernatorial election holding on Saturday 16 November, 2024.
Governor Aiyetidawa’s visit to Owo, the birthplace of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, was marked by strong endorsements from the royal fathers, who pledged their unwavering support for Aiyedatiwa’s election bid.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers in the council area, Oba Ogunoye assured the governor of the people’s commitment to his candidacy.
“The people of Owo have made their choice, and we are resolved to vote en masse for Governor Aiyedatiwa as the next governor of Ondo State,” the monarch stated.
Oba Ogunoye noted that the campaign could almost be seen as a formality, as the traditional council had unanimously endorsed Aiyedatiwa for continuity in governance.
The Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, who also spoke at the palace, expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for entrusting him with the role of Deputy and running mate and for appointing Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac, another Owo indigene, as the Commissioner for Finance.
Dr. Adelami emphasised the significance of these gestures to the people of Owo, urging them to show their appreciation with votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration is committed to the development of Owo and the entire state. He listens to the people, making him a leader who respects the needs of all and sundry,” Adelami added.
In his response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed thanked the people of Owo for their support. Saying Owo feels like his second home, the Governor promised not to disappoint the people of the community.
He emphasised the importance of peace and security to his administration and reaffirmed his commitment to completing all projects initiated under the late Governor Akeredolu’s administration.
He also assured the monarchs that the upgrade of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to a university would receive due attention, alongside enhanced funding for its subvention.
Meanwhile, at the popular Mobil ground in Owo, Governor Aiyedatiwa met with thousands of enthusiastic supporters from various communities, including Isuada, Ipele, and Usho. Supporters carried placards with inscriptions demonstrating their solidarity for the Governor, creating a vibrant display of community backing.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude for the overwhelming turnout and urged supporters to transform their enthusiasm into votes on 16th November 2024.
“This week is a Lucky week,” he remarked, stressing his optimism for success in the election.
Dr. Awodeyi Apata, an APC chieftain, speaking on behalf of the people of Owo, reaffirmed the community’s trust in Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, commending his dedication to the welfare of the state.
