By Damilare Adeleye
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has inaugurated 12 newly appointed Commissioners into the State Executive Council.
The newly inaugurated Commissioners include Pastor Segun Ayerin, Mr Olaolu Akindolire, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, Dr Banji Ajaka, Mr Boye Ologbese, Mr Sunday Akinwalire, Deaconess Lola Fagbemi, Mr Saka Yusuf Ogunleye, Mr Rasheed Badmus, Mr Olayato Aribo, Mr Adewale Akinlosotu and Barr Gbenga Olaniyi.
In a statement issued on Friday, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor said Aiyedatiwa urged the Commissioners to justify their appointments through dedicated service, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to accelerated development and good governance.
He quoted the governor as saying; “Let me congratulate the newly inaugurated appointees for being worthy of consideration as Honourable Commissioners in Ondo State. Some of you are returning, while others are new Commissioners. In the main, you have a duty to justify your appointment or reappointment as the case may be. I must inform you that this administration is in a hurry to deliver on its mandate and make life more meaningful to the people.
“The torch of accelerated development that we hold aloft in trust for the people is irreversible. You must guard your loins and hit the ground running in your various offices. You must foster a good working relationship with the workers, especially the Permanent Secretaries and other Accounting Officers.
“Let us bear in mind that the government and people of Ondo State are united in their thirst for credible performance, development and good governance. You must excuse corruption or any act that is not nurturing to good governance and overriding public interest. Thus, I like to implore all friends, families and well-wishers of the new appointees to refrain from putting undue pressures on them so that they can concentrate and discharge their duties in the overall best interest of the State.”
Highlighting the administration’s accomplishments in various sectors, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the strides made in addressing salary arrears, gratuity payments, employment opportunities, infrastructure development, and security enhancement.
He stressed the administration’s focus on collaboration with federal and corporate entities to stimulate economic growth and ensure food security in the state.
The Governor called for peaceful conduct during the upcoming gubernatorial primary elections, stressing the importance of upholding democratic principles and avoiding divisive actions.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, emphasized the importance of wholehearted commitment from the newly inaugurated Commissioners. He stressed that their forthcoming responsibilities transcend mere formalities, symbolizing principles of justice and equity.
Oluwatuyi urged them to labor tirelessly, demonstrating unwavering dedication, reminding them that the authority vested in their positions is not for personal enrichment but for the welfare of the people.
Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated Commissioners, Dr Banji Ajaka appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for the trust reposed in them, with a promise not to disappoint the Governor and the people of the State.