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Tag: Ondo State

  • Ondo Governor, Aiyedatiwa suspends all LG caretaker chairmen

    Ondo Governor, Aiyedatiwa suspends all LG caretaker chairmen

    The Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has suspended caretaker chairmen of the 18 local government areas, LGAs, and 33 local council development areas, LCDAs, in the state.

    Aiyedatiwa noted that all the caretaker chairmen are to remain suspended until a court of law determines the matter.

    This was contained In a letter signed by Alonge Adewale of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the governor directed the suspended caretaker chairmen to hand over all properties belonging to the LCDC.

    The letter read: “It has come to the notice of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs that despite the suspension of all recently appointed Caretaker Committee members for Local Government (LGAS) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the State by a Court of competent jurisdiction, some individuals in these former positions are still parading themselves in that posts.

    “Consequently, I have been directed to request the Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGAs) in all the LGAs/LCDAs to immediately assume responsibility as head of their respective Local Government Areas/ LCDAs in acting capacity pending the resolution of all Legal matters relating to this subject.”

    An Akure High Court presided over by Justice Yemi Fasanmi had granted an interim injunction filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which sought to restrain late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu from inaugurating any person or persons not democratically elected as member(s) of caretaker committees to administer the affairs of the local councils and the LCDAs, pending the determination of the interlocutory injunction in the suit.

    Justice Fasanmi later barred the caretaker chairmen from operating after they resumed office on the excuse that they had been sworn in before the order was granted.

  • Ondo workers set for all salary arrears payments

    Ondo workers set for all salary arrears payments

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has promised workers in the State that salaries owed them would be paid in due course.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Aiyedatiwa made the promise during a prayer service held at the State secretariat complex in Akure on Tuesday.

    The prayer service was to commit the State public service and the new year into the hands of God.

    Aiyedatiwa assured of his resolve to improve the value and dignity of the civil service for a better future.

    The governor said the civil service would be repositioned for accountability and the State would be opened up for more investment.

    He stressed all arrears owed workers in the State service, particularly the outstanding salary in 2017, would be paid in due course.

    Aiyedatiwa, who spoke on the 2024 governorship election, urged workers in public service to refrain from partisan politics and politics of bitterness.

    “The year 2024 promises to be prosperous in all facets of our lives particularly, in our quest as an administration to improve value and dignity of the service.

    “We are clear in our vision of a better tomorrow which the people of Ondo State will be proud of, irrespective of religious and political affiliations.

    “I have conviction that the new year will be an eventful year. I can say that giving the judicious implementation of our year 2024 budget, it will bring some succour amidst the economic challenges facing the people.

    “No administration can fly higher than the delivery capacity and ability of its bureaucracy.

    “It is also true that working in one accord with the bureaucracy, the political authorities can surmount most of the hurdles in its way to meeting with developmental programmes, policies and projects.

    “Therefore my dear workers, I am pleased to hear your good testimonies of payment of salaries, prompt promotion, payment of inherited salaries in arrears, training and retraining, provision of working tools and enabling environment for the service to thrive among others.

    “I also want to assure you that the fraction of the outstanding salary left will be cleared soon,” he said.

    In his address,the Head of Service, Mr Kayode Ogundele, appreciated the support of union leaders to the Renewed hope agenda of the present government.

    Ogundele promised that the welfare of the civil servants would top the agenda of government in 2024.

    In his words of exhortation, the founder of the Agape Christian Ministries International, Bishop Felix Adejumo, told the workers that leadership was a responsibility.

    Adejumo said that hence the need for everyone to pray for Aiyedatiwa to excel in the new assignment of governance.

    He charged the governor to serve with a genuine mind to reposition the state for growth and development.

    Also speaking, the National Vice Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress, Mr Sunday Adeleye, appealed to the Federal and State government to restrategise on the approach to cushion the effect of subsidy in 2024.

    Adeleye said there was the need for urgent implementation of the new minimum wage as well as commitment to the welfare of workers and Nigerians.

    Similarly, the state NLC Chairman, Mr Victor Amoko, urged the state government to pay the remaining arrears of salary owed to civil servants.

  • South West Govs to give Akeredolu collective burial

    South West Govs to give Akeredolu collective burial

    Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has disclosed the former Governor of Ondo State, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu who died on Wednesday would be given a collective burial.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Abiodun disclosed this on Friday following a condolence visit of four governors from the South-West zone to the family of Akeredolu.

    Governors on the condolence call included: Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Abiodun Oyebamiji of Ekiti and the host Governor, Seyi Makinde, who was represented by his Deputy, Bayo Lawal.

    Addressing newsmen after signing the condolence register, Gov Abiodun, who spoke on behalf of others, said that they would be collectively involved in Akeredolu’s funeral ceremony, adding that he truly deserved it.

    The governor said that a joint committee would soon be set up to work with the family and collaborate with Ondo State government to ensure a befitting burial for the late governor.

    “Governors of the south-west states are here to commiserate with the Akeredolu family and Ondo State government, on the passage of our senior colleague and brother, His Excellency, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, who the Lord has called.

    “We are still in a state of shock over Akeredolu’s demise. He was the chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, the positions he he led very courageously, fearlessly until his death.

    “All of us are here, on behalf of our families and the entire people of south-west states to commiserate with the family, people and government of Ondo state.

    “We pray that Almighty God will forgive all his sins. We also pray that God will grant the wife, children, people and government of Ondo state the heart to bear this sad, shocking and painful exit.

    “We recall vividly how he resuscitated the southern governors’ forum meeting in Delta about two-and-a-half years ago and he consistently advocated for the returning of the presidency come to the south.

    “He will be sorely missed by all of us,” Abiodun stated.

  • Ondo State Governor told to abide by rule of law

    Ondo State Governor told to abide by rule of law

    The Ondo State Conscience Movement (OCM), a socio-political group, has urged Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa to always allow the rule of law to reign supreme, as he pilots the affairs of the state following the demise of Mr Rotimi Akeredolu.

    Chairman of the movement, Mr Shalom Olaseni, gave the advice in a congratulatory and condolence message sent to the Ondo State Government and the family of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu on Thursday.

    “May the indomitable spirit of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu inspire and guide the state towards an era of prosperity under the sagacious leadership of the new governor,” he said.

    Akeredolu died on Wednesday after a protracted illness. He had last week transferred authority to his former Deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, through the State House of Assembly, to oversee the affairs of the state

    Olaseni said that working in accordance with the law would enable Aiyedatiwa to foster an era of unity, progress and enhanced welfare for the people.

    “In this transitional period, we implore Governor Aiyedatiwa to ascend with courage, fairness, and a resolute commitment to the principles of good governance.

    “The challenges that lie ahead demand not just a leader but a visionary who can navigate the intricacies of our state with sagacity and impartiality.

    “We call on Governor Aiyedatiwa to seize this opportunity to entrench responsive governance and leadership that reflects the aspirations of the people.

    “Selecting a cabinet composed of only the brightest and most capable minds will be crucial in perpetuating the legacy left by Governor Akeredolu.

    “Recognising the leadership vacuum left in the wake of critical health challenges and political rifts, we urge the new governor to swiftly address this by nominating a Deputy-Governor within the constitutionally stipulated time frame,” he added.

    He prayed for the new governor to succeed in his arduous journey as the number citizen of the state, while urging the Akeredolu’s family to take solace in God following the demise of the state’s beloved former governor.

    According to Olaseni, the state government and the resilient people of Ondo are still at loss to the sudden demise of their beloved former governor.

    Akeredolu’s indomitable spirit, courage, and tenacity in the face of relentless grip of ill health have left an indelible mark in the hearts of Ondo people.

    “Governor Akeredolu, a paragon of unwavering determination, navigated the tumultuous waters of his illness with grace and fortitude, embodying the very essence of leadership.

    “Today, we bow our heads in reverence, reflecting upon the tireless efforts he invested in securing the lives of Ondo State citizens, particularly through the visionary Amotekun initiative.

    “His legacy in this regard is not just a chapter in our history but a living testament to the resilience of a man who spoke truth to power.

    “As we mourn the departure of a political titan, let it be known that the Ondo State Conscience Movement stands in unwavering solidarity with those profoundly affected by this loss.

    “We pay homage to Governor Akeredolu’s exemplary service, his foresight, and the enduring impact of his leadership, pledging to carry the torch of his ideals into the future,” Olaseni added.

  • Aiyedatiwa opens up on visit to Akeredolu’s family after emerging Gov

    Aiyedatiwa opens up on visit to Akeredolu’s family after emerging Gov

    Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and state officials on Thursday paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Rotimi Akeredolu, former governor of Ondo State, in Ibadan.

    Aiyedatiwa described the demise of the former governor as a great loss, not just to Ondo State and Akeredolu’s family, but to the whole nation.

    He said that both government and entire sons and daughters of the state were currently mourning because everyone in the state was connected to him in one way or the other.

    The governor noted that Akeredolu was one voice that could not be easily forgotten in Nigeria’s history.

    He said that the former governor was a great man of courage who always pursued his conviction with courage, irrespective of circumstances around the issue.

    “We cannot forget him because the legacies he has laid down in Ondo state are all there for all to see.

    “In the areas of security, protection of lives and property, wellbeing of people, infrastructural development, education and health to mention a few, “he said.

    Aiyedatiwa said that the former governor diligently served God, family, friends, Ondo state and his profession.

    “We all know the involvement of the former governor in the christian faith, particularly the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion.

    “He was the chancellor of his diocese and great contributor to the development of the church.

    “We believe in God as author of life because he takes the saints home when it pleases him.Precious in the sight of God is the death of his saints.

    “He has completed his journey, lived a purposeful life and made great impact. We should be praying as his followers to be able to attain the feat he reached while he was alive.

    “From what we have witnessed as his followers, we believe that a crown is waiting for him in heaven and I believe we will meet him again on the day of resurrection in his glorified body.

    “On behalf of the government and good people of Ondo state, we have come to pay our condolences to the family. We want to commiserate and be identified with you on the demise of our late leader, “he said

    Responding on behalf of the family, Pastor Kola Akeredolu, younger brother of the deceased, commended the governor for his demonstration of love toward the family.

    He said that the family would not take the visit for granted.

  • Akeredolu’s death: Ondo Commissioner resigns appointment

    Akeredolu’s death: Ondo Commissioner resigns appointment

    The Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing in Ondo state, Raimi Aminu has resigned his appointment.

    In a letter made available to newsmen on Friday in Akure, Aminu said that his decision followed the death of Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,

    He expressed his sincere appreciation to the former governor and the people of the state for the opportunity given to him to serve in different capacities.

    “I write to tender my resignation of my appointment as the commissioner for Infrastructure, Land and Housing with effect from today, Dec. 28, 2023.

    “This decision is anchored on my conscience as my leader and boss, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu joined the saint triumphant.

    “I sincerely thank our dear Arakunrin and the good people of the state for the opportunity to serve in his cabinet as senior special assistant on Lands and Infrastructure.

    “And Special Adviser on Lands, Works and Infrastructure and Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing,” he said.

    On Wednesday two aides resigned their appointments following the demise of Akeredolu.

    The aides are Mr Richard Olatunde, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor (CPS) and Mr Dare Aragbaye, Special Adviser, Union Matters and Special Duties.

  • Victim narrates ordeal in kidnappers’ den

    Victim narrates ordeal in kidnappers’ den

    A victim of kidnapping, Mrs Adefunke Ale, has narrated her experience when she was kidnapped at Amurin on Akure/Owo Road in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State on her way to Akure.

    Ale narrated her ordeal on Tuesday in Akure, saying she was ambushed by eight suspected kidnappers on Oct. 15,  on her way to Akure from Owo.

    According to her, she was with her brother, Mr Yemi Ogunmolasuyi, who was driving the car in which they were traveling.

    She explained that the kidnappers, who did not cover their faces, were armed with AK-47 rifles.

    According to her, the kidnappers said they targeted her in order to collect huge ransom from her son, Mr Akeem Olugosi, living in the United States of America (USA).

    “We were waylaid by four kidnappers at Amurin on the road and another set of four kidnappers were at the back of the car.

    “They shot at our car and we had to park and all the car doors opened

    “Four of them guided me to the bush and another set of four guided my elder brother also to the bush, ” she told NAN.

    She said that on sighting a mud portion in the bush, she fell flat on the mud because of tiredness.

    “They had to drag me and in the process, I sustained some wounds on my legs.

    “While being dragged, one of them asked them to carry me and they had already removed my footwear and had taken my bag, which contained many valuables: international passport, driver’s  licence, cell phones, national identity card, ATM card and a smaller bag, ” Ale said.

    Ale said that motorists plying the road could not wait to render any help to her

    She stated that it was some policemen who rescued her and took her to the hospital for medical care.

    “I could not stand up and I had to crawl until I reached the roadside.

    “There was a heavy traffic hold-up on the road because our vehicle had double-crossed the road, ” she explained.

    Ale said that all attempts to ask for help from motorists did not yield any positive result, adding that she was there for almost 30 minutes before some boys came out from the bush opposite the area.

    “I appealed to them to carry me but in the process, policemen arrived and I told them that the kidnappers had taken my brother away and the police said that they would carry me to their station to report.

    “When we got to Emure-Ile Police Station, the DPO there asked them to quickly take me to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo ( FMC) for medical treatment, ” she said.

    According to her, her brother spent six days with the kidnappers because they initially asked for N100 million as ransom.

    Ale appealed to the government at all levels to find a lasting solution to the menace of kidnapping on Nigerian roads.

    According to her,  she was encumbered by fear to travel since the incident.

  • What Akeredolu would be remembered for – APC Canada

    What Akeredolu would be remembered for – APC Canada

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Canada has described the former governor of Ondo State, late Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, as a man to be remembered for his services to humanity.

    Akeredolu, aged 67, died on Wednesday morning after a protracted illness.

    The Vice Chairman of APC in Canada, Dr Abiola Oshodi, stated this in a telephone interview on Wednesday with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the demise of the former governor.

    “Dr Abiola Oshodi and all the members of his political family mourn Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, popularly called Aketi.

    “We console the family, and the great people of Ondo State, over his demise after a protracted terminal illness.

    “Arakunrin fought gallantly even till the end, he was bold, courageous even in death .

    “Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu  was a man of integrity whose personality represented courage and dedication to good governance.

    “He has laid down many legacy projects across the state  and we will remember him for all the services he rendered to humanity. You came, you saw, you fought and you conquered,” he said.

    Oshodi described the former governor’s death as a colossal loss to the state and Nigeria at large, adding that his death had put the state in a mourning and sad mode.

    Oshodi, who is also a psychiatrist consultant, prayed for the departed soul  to rest In peace.

  • Aiyedatiwa’s emergence divinely orchestrated – Osun Governor, Adeleke

    Aiyedatiwa’s emergence divinely orchestrated – Osun Governor, Adeleke

    The Governor of Osun state, Ademola Adeleke has posited that the emergence of Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the Governor of Ondo state was divinely orchestrated.

    Governor Adeleke made this known while turning in his congratulatory message signed and released by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed on Wednesday.

    Recall  that Lucky Aiyedatiwa, former acting governor of Ondo State, was sworn in as the substantive governor of the state on Wednesday, December 27, 2023.

    Aiyedatiwa’s swearing-in followed the death of Rotimi Akeredolu.

    The Ondo State government in a confirmation statement later in the day revealed that Akeredolu died from prostate cancer in Germany.

    Governor Adeleke while lamenting the demise of the former Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, noted that God is the alpha and omega and the giver of life and power.

    He also urged the new governor to continue his devotion to the service of the people and humanity.

    “I rejoice with my colleague, the new Governor of Ondo State. This is a golden opportunity to expand delivery of democratic dividends, heal the wounds of the past and unite the state for greater advancement.

    “Ondo State has passed through multiple turbulence. It is my prayers that the power transition will deepen democracy and widen the hope and aspirations of the people for a people-oriented Governor.

    “I wish my brother best of tenure in the service of the state. I look forward to working with him and other colleagues for regional development cooperation and for national reform for a stronger economy,” he said.

  • Ondo Governor, Aiyedatiwa appoints five aides hours after taking oath of office

    Ondo Governor, Aiyedatiwa appoints five aides hours after taking oath of office

    Few hours after being sworn in as the Governor of Ondo state, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has appointed five new aides

    This development was  was made available to pressmen in a statement on Wednesday by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Omojuwa Olusegun.

    According to the statement, Aiyedatiwa appointed a seasoned journalist, Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, as his Chief Press Secretary and Sunday Abire as Special Assistant on New Media.

    Ebenezer Adeniyan was, until his new appointment, Publisher of Trace News magazine.

    Others were Abire Sunday, Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Smart Omodunbi, Special Assistant on Political Matters, Monturayo Oyedele, Special Assistant on Photography and Temitayo Iperepolu, Special Assistant on Domestic and Government House.

    Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the Ondo state governor on Union Matters and special duties, Dare Aragbaye, has tendered his resignation.

    According to the letter addressed to the Secretary to the State Government SSG and dated December 27, Aragbaye said he was resigning because of the death of the governor, Rotimi Akeredolu.

    The letter reads, “l write to refer to the subject above and to resign my appointment as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties with effect from today, Wednesday, 27 December, 2023.