By Banji Ayoola
The Ilaje Development Summit Group (IDSG) has prayed for divine guidance for Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in running the state.
In a congratulatory message signed by its Executive Administrator, Adesola Omogbeminiyi Adebawo, it expressed delight at the inauguration of Aiyedatiwa, who is the first to be governor of the state from Ilaje Land.
While declaring its support for the governor’s ability to deliver quality and responsive leadership, the group also commiserated with the state and the people of Owo town, especially the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, over the departure of former governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
The group, which has been at the forefront of the advocacy for the development of the Ilaje Nation, said Akeredolu left an enduring legacy in the state, the South West Region and the nation at large.
According to the statement: “The leadership and members of Ilaje Development Summit Group (IDSG) wish to express our condolences to Your Excellency, as well as the government and people of Ondo State, on the painful passing away of former Governor Rotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
“The late Governor Akeredolu made significant contributions to the welfare and progress of Ondo State, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
“His leadership and dedication to public service have undoubtedly positively impacted the state and its citizens.
“He was a staunch supporter and believer in the ideals of IDSG and the dire need for the development of Ilaje land.
“Governor Akeredolu made significant contributions to the welfare and progress of Ondo State, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
“His leadership and dedication to public service have undoubtedly positively impacted the state and its citizens. He was a staunch supporter and believer in the ideals of IDSG and the dire need for the development of Ilaje land.
“He was audacious, fearless and patriotic. At a time when agents of darkness beamed their searchlight on the South Western states of Nigeria, he, Akeredolu stood and championed a course that brought about the widely enjoyed regional security apparatus (AMOTEKUN) in South West and other parts of Nigeria, thereby helping to restore relative peace in these regions.”
On Aiyedatiwa’s emergence, the group said: “This also shows your faithfulness, capacity, and dedication to duty. We celebrate with you and pray for God’s guidance in your administration.
“Your Excellency, as the first Ilaje person to become governor since the creation of Ondo State, the weight of history is on your capable shoulders.
“We pray that God grants you uncommon wisdom to excel in this exalted office.
“At IDSG, we are happy to support your administration to deliver much-needed leadership and development to the state in general, but with particular attention to Ilaje Land.”
