The Igbo community in Ondo State has pledged support for Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s reelection bid.
Ebenezer Adeniyan, the governor’s spokesman, said in a statement that they gave the pledge during a meeting that members of the Igbo community, led by the Eze Ndigbo of Akure/Ondo State and National President, Association of Ndieze Ndigbo in Diaspora, Chief Gregory Iloeika, held with the governor on Wednesday in Akure.
In his address, Iloeika expressed profound gratitude to the governor for appointing Hon. Francis Belonwu, Hon. Barr. Isaiah Igwe, and Hon. Uche Okeafor as Special Assistants on Igbo Affairs across the state’s three senatorial zones, and another Igbo as a Senior Special Assistant on Non-indigenes.
He praised Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to inclusivity, support for the Igbo community in Ondo State, and his resilience and dedication to driving the state’s development.
He also applauded the governor’s execution of people-oriented projects, formulating policies, and his remarkable ability to overcome challenges.
Addressing recent speculations about the Igbo community’s loyalty to the Governor, Iloeika reassured the Governor of the unwavering support of Ndigbo ahead of the coming governorship election in the State.
He emphasized the community’s readiness to play an active role in the election, reflecting their significant role in the state’s socio-economic progress.
Iloeika also dispelled rumors of factionalism within the Igbo community, asserting that any internal disagreements are resolved amicably, maintaining unity.
Responding, Aiyedatiwa affirmed that the state is free from tribalism, emphasizing that people from all ethnic backgrounds will continue to be welcomed to live peacefully and pursue their businesses within the state.
He stressed that despite differences in tribes and tongues, the shared identity as Nigerians binds everyone together, adding that unity and brotherhood should prevail, transcending any cultural or linguistic barriers.
The Governor reassured the Igbo community of his administration’s unwavering commitment to their well-being, adding that they should feel confident in reaching out to the government whenever they encounter any issues or challenges, promising that their concerns will be addressed promptly and with utmost care.
