In an emotional moment on Sunday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa shared that he remained loyal to the late Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, until the very end. Akeredolu, who governed Ondo State, passed away on December 26, 2023, following a prolonged battle with cancer. Following Akeredolu’s passing, Aiyedatiwa, who was then the deputy governor, was sworn in as governor, in line with the provisions of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended.
During a church service at the Government House Chapel on Sunday, October 27, 2024, Governor Aiyedatiwa, acknowledging the presence of dignitaries including former Chief of Staff Chief Olugbenga Ale, remarked that both he and Ale were unwaveringly loyal to the late governor throughout his health challenges and eventual passing.
“We were loyal to the end,” he said. “I often called him the man who saw tomorrow. He understood the journey himself and said things ahead of time. I am a worshiper of God, and we shared many deep conversations that I can’t reveal. On several occasions, we would go out to pray for him. There were times he traveled without informing anyone but me. He would let me know only and ask me to pray for his safe return. Only God knows the time and season.”
The governor then invited Deaconess Lola Fagbemi, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, to testify to Akeredolu’s statements during the State Executive Council Meeting. Aiyedatiwa recounted that during one meeting, the late governor had expressed that if he could not complete certain projects, Aiyedatiwa would. “Out of the mouths of two or three witnesses, the truth is established,” he added, quoting the Holy Bible.
“The late governor foresaw his departure and said he would leave us to continue the struggle. He even predicted that I would be the only member left in the Executive Council. This came to pass on the day I dissolved the Council. I remembered his prediction,” Aiyedatiwa noted.
“I did not orchestrate this; it was divine. I am doing what God wants me to do.”
Those in attendance included Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, MNI; Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbakun; Chairman of SUBEB Victor Olabintan; and other notable figures.
Comrade Allen Sowore, Esq.
SSA to the Governor of Ondo State on Strategic Communication
November 1st, 2024
