Lucky Aiyedatiwa was on Monday sworn in as the seventh elected Governor of Ondo State in a ceremony held at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.
The inauguration marks the beginning of Aiyedatiwa’s first full four-year term following his victory in the November 2024 gubernatorial election under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The event commenced with the swearing-in of the Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami, followed by Governor Aiyedatiwa, who took the oath of office at exactly 12:59 p.m., administered by the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola.
In his inaugural speech, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the people of Ondo State for their unwavering support and pledged to prioritize development, economic growth, and enhanced security.
He vowed to build on the legacies of his predecessor, the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, whom he described as a courageous leader dedicated to the service of Ondo State and Nigeria.
“We must not forget this courageous and personable leader who literally emptied himself in the service of Ondo State and Nigeria. His legacy continues to inspire us to build upon the foundations he laid,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He emphasized his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development, job creation, and youth empowerment through entrepreneurship and innovation.
The Governor assured the people of transparent and inclusive governance that will create opportunities for all residents to thrive.
However, in a notable act to mark his assumption of office, Governor Aiyedatiwa granted clemency to 43 inmates across various correctional facilities in the state.
The gesture included the immediate release of eight inmates, the commutation of death sentences for 15 individuals to various prison terms, and sentence reductions for 20 others. This move followed the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo.
Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the decision was aimed at promoting justice reform and offering deserving inmates a second chance at contributing positively to society.
The ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including the APC National Chairman, Abdullai Ganduje, former APC chairman, Bisi Akande, former governor of the state, Olusegun Mimiko, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebamiji, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Olusegun Osoba, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo Minister for Interior among others in attendance.
