- Says victory is more work, selfless service to Ondo people
An elated Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu celebrated his re-election victory on Sunday, admitting the people’s renewed mandate represents huge and demanding challenge for his administration to rededicate itself to selfless service in delivering on democracy dividends across Ondo state.
This is as he specially congratulated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Eyitayo Jegede, for his patriotism and unassailable love for the Ondo people.
Governor Akeredolu also had commendation words for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that the electoral umpire conducted “a free, fair and credible election” in the State.
As Owo residents trooped to his residence with drums and other musical instruments to celebrate the hard won electoral battle, he assured them the administration will always make Ondo people and their interests its priority in the new dispensation.
Speaking at his Owo country home shortly after INEC declared him winner of the gubernatorial poll, Governor Akeredolu said the mandate renewal represents an eloquent testimony of his acceptance by the people as well as an affirmation of their unshaken confidence in the APC administration.
Among dignitaries at his residence when the final results were declared include members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Campaign Council led by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Others present are Osun state Governor Gboyega Oyetola; his Kogi state counterpart, Yahaya Bello; and former Governor of Ogun state, Ibikunle Amosun;
Expressing his gratitude to the Ondo electorates, Governor Akeredolu described the victory as a positive statement and assessment of his performance in the last three and a half years.
“It is unequivocal, direct, inspiring and soul lifting. It is awesome. It is a reward for hard work, dedication, focus, honesty and patriotism. It is also a challenge to us for rededication to service in the interest of our people. On this, we shall not relent.
“The resounding victory of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), throws an open challenge to all stakeholders not to choose the path of complacency.
“We have noted the few dissenting voices of protest in this referendum. We heard them loud and clear. We intend to address genuine grievances. We shall continue to focus on the development of our God-given space, the Sunshine State”, he said.
According to him; “This Administration will not be distracted in the discharge of our sacred mandate. The people will continue to be at the centre of all decisions.
“We will proceed with our administrative style which promotes transparency and accountability. We are determined to set our State, progressively, on the path of real development. Self-reliance is attainable.”
“Our State has no business with poverty. Sincere, purposeful and focused leadership should have little difficulty in harnessing the vast resources, both human and natural. We will put in everything to justify the trust reposed in us”, the governor assured.