Aiyedatiwa demands patriotism as deputy gov takes oath

The new Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has  demanded patriotism from Dr Olaide Adelami, who was sworn in on Thursday as the deputy governor of the state.

Adelami’s swearing-in on Thursday followed his recent screening and confimation by the state House of Assembly after his name was forwarded to the lawmakers by Aiyedatiwa.

The new deputy governor, who is a kinsman of the late immediate-past governor Rotimi Akeredolu, took his oath of office at a ceremony held at the International Culture and Event Centre, Akure.

The oath was administered on him by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Olusegun Odusola.

Speaking at the inauguration, Aiyedatiwa urged the new deputy governor to play the game according to the rules by embracing patriotism and shunning all forms of corrupt practices.

The governor said, “I like to congratulate you and your families on your well-deserved appointment in the belief that you will serve diligently and patriotically.

“You must bear in mind that this administration has zero tolerance for corruption. We expect you to demonstrate transparent, open and accountable leadership in your new office.  You must also avoid discrimination as you have the entire state as your constituency, rather than serving sectional interests.

“In accordance with our desire to serve the people better, we are bringing on board a gentleman of stellar quality, impeccable character and rich administrative acumen as deputy governor, Dr Olayide Owolabi Adelami,  I must add that the ecstasies and jubilation which greeted the recent appointments across the state are a testimony that we have made the right choices. This is a clear challenge for you, the new deputy governor to handle your portfolio in a manner to sustain this euphoria, because as it is often said, it is easier getting to the top than to remain at the top.”

In his acceptance speech, Adelami, who commended the governor and other stakeholders for appointing him to the position, promised to join hands with the governor to move the state forward and sustain the legacy of the late Akeredolu.

“To the good people of Ondo State, I’m here to join hands with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to serve you and ensure that life is made more meaningful for you in all facets. I want to, therefore, appeal to all our people in Ondo State at home and abroad to kindly support Mr Governor and me in our sincere desire to entrench good governance in our Sunshine State.

“You will agree with me that within a month that Governor Aiyedatiwa has been in the saddle of governance in our dear state, a new lease of life has manifested across sectors of the state. Contractors working on various infrastructural developments in Ondo State are back to sites and they are more committed than ever before,  because of the assurance of Mr Governor that he would not abandon any of the laudable projects of our former  governor,  Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.”