Olufon stool: We’ll follow due process– Aiyedatiwa

…As governor tours Ose, Owo on Day 3 of statewide engagement, pledges security, infrastructure

By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has assured residents of Ose and Owo Local Government Areas of improved security and sustained infrastructural development as his administration’s statewide tour of the 18 local government areas entered its third day.

The governor spoke during visits to communities across the two councils, explaining that the outreach was aimed at appreciating the people for their support during the last governorship election and strengthening engagement between the government and citizens at the grassroots.

He said the tour, scheduled to be concluded within seven days, was designed to bridge the gap between the state government and party members, stakeholders and residents who may not have regular access to the seat of government in Akure.

According to Aiyedatiwa, while quarterly stakeholders’ meetings are usually held with leaders from each local government, the ongoing tour provides a platform for direct interaction with grassroots supporters, enabling the government to listen to their concerns, brief them on ongoing projects and foster stronger bonds.

The governor noted that Ose Local Government, being a border area, had previously faced serious security challenges, including incursions by bandits and other criminal elements.

He, however, said the situation had improved significantly following the reorganisation of the security architecture in the area.

“To further secure the border communities, an Amotekun Rangers camp has been established and this has drastically reduced security threats,” he said, adding that residents can now go about their farming and business activities without fear.

He disclosed that several infrastructural projects were ongoing across the local government areas, stressing that although some campaign promises were yet to be fully delivered, work was progressing steadily.

Aiyedatiwa assured the people that most of the promises made during the electioneering period would be fulfilled within the first year of the administration and beyond.

He also extended goodwill messages to residents ahead of the Christmas celebration, announcing the distribution of palliatives to support families during the festive season.

On the Olufon of Ifon stool, the governor assured stakeholders in Ose Local Government Area that his administration would strictly adhere to due process in the selection of the next monarch.

He said the registered declaration of 1969 would guide the process. “We will follow the registered declaration of 1969. Once a candidate is duly selected in line with the law, I will personally present the Staff of Office to him,” he stated.

The governor disclosed that the Omo Olugba family is next in line to produce the monarch and had been directed to present a suitable candidate, assuring that once the selection is properly concluded, he would present the staff of office.

He urged the kingmakers to conclude the process promptly and peacefully.

Aiyedatiwa further highlighted that amenities such as improved electricity supply, school shuttle buses and other social interventions were outcomes of the reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which, he said, had strengthened the state’s capacity to execute projects.

At Owo, the governor reaffirmed his connection with the town, recalling that the late former governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, had chosen him as deputy governor.

He added that Owo recorded the highest number of votes during the last election, describing the support as a responsibility his administration would continue to honour through responsive and people-oriented governance.

According to him, the tour remains a platform to reassure citizens of government’s commitment to their welfare, security and development, while reinforcing hope for better days ahead.

Those in attendance included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Member of the House of Assembly representing Owo Constituency I, Hon. Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi; Commissioner for Finance, Mrs Omowumi Isaac; Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye; Special Adviser on Legislative and Party Affairs, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde, among others.