With ten days until the Ondo State gubernatorial election, the campaign tour of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa continued on Wednesday with a visit to communities in Odigbo Local Government Area.
The first point of call was the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Rufus Olugboyega Akinrinmade, the Orunja of Odigbo Kingdom, who lauded the governor for his commitment to the development of the State.
The Orunja noted the numerous developmental projects initiated and completed under the Aiyedatiwa administration, emphasising their impact on the state's growth and prosperity.
"It is the Ifa oracle that has chosen Aiyedatiwa, not any human being. His mandate is a divine call from our ancestors, and there is nothing anyone can do to alter this", the monarch declared.
The Orunja called on the people of Odigbo to rally behind the governor and ensure a decisive victory for him in the November 16 election.
The traditional ruler also offered prayers for the governor's success. He, however, highlighted some concerns of the community for the governor's attention.
In his response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed deep gratitude to the Orunja of Odigbo and the other monarchs across the state for their steadfast support and for fostering peace at the grassroots.
The Governor assured the monarch that his administration would address the community's concerns, particularly issues related to the forest reserves and inter-community relations.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also inaugurated a block of four classrooms and a staff room at Isero Grammar School, as part of the Isero Community Project supported by the Ondo Care Initiative.
Mr. Hamidu Takuro, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and a native of the council area, stated that the governor's visit was a gesture of appreciation, as the people of Odigbo Local Government have already resolved to support Aiyedatiwa.
Takuro assured the community that Aiyedatiwa's priority is the comprehensive development of the state and the overall well-being of its citizens.
Speaking on behalf of the non-indigenous communities in Ore, the headquarters of Odigbo Local Government Area, Pastor Olarewaju Segun highlighted the pressing challenges faced by the diverse population.
He described Ore as a heterogeneous society that requires significant infrastructural investment to boost economic activities and improve the standard of living for residents.
In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the community of his administration's commitment to addressing the issues raised, promising that his administration will enhance the status of Ore as the economic hub of the state.
The Governor pledged to integrate their requests into the 2025 budget, noting that strategic planning would ensure these projects are implemented to benefit all residents.
The APC campaign also visited Mile 13 in Oniseere Ward, Kajola and Araromi Obu, with the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, leading the last leg of the campaign tour, in company of the Director General of the campaign, Hon. Abiola Makinde, Chief Olusola Oke, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, Hon. Mayowa Akinfolarin, Hon. Ogundeji Iroju, Hon. Bola Ilori, Mr. Dare Aliu, among others.