The Olowa of Igbara-Oke, Oba Adefarakanmi Agbede, has affirmed that traditional rulers in Ondo State endorsed the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate and incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for the November 16 governorship election due to his exceptional leadership qualities.
In a statement released by Governor Aiyedatiwa’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the monarch made this declaration on Wednesday during the governor’s consultation visit to his palace in Igbara-Oke, headquarters of Ifedore Local Government Area, as part of the governor’s campaign tour.
Oba Agbede praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for being attentive and respectful toward the traditional institutions in the state, embodying the values of ‘Omoluabi’—a person of noble character. He noted that Aiyedatiwa’s impressive achievements within just ten months of taking office are a testament to his capability to deliver outstanding results if granted a full term.
The monarch further assured that the people of Igbara-Oke and the entire Ifedore community stand firmly behind the governor and will vote for him en masse on November 16.
Similarly, at the palace of the Olujare of Ijare, the Sapetu of Ijare, High Chief Wemimo Olaniyan, speaking on behalf of the local traditional rulers, lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa’s notable accomplishments within a short period.
However, he urged the governor to prioritize the completion of the Oke-Odu to Ijare road and address other pressing needs in the community, pledging the full backing of the Ijare community for his re-election.
In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and the strong support from both the traditional rulers and residents.
He assured them that his administration remains committed to addressing their needs and fulfilling their expectations.
He said: “I am truly grateful for the overwhelming support and the confidence you have shown in our administration. Your requests, including the completion of the Oke-Odu to Ijare road, are well noted, and I assure you that we will address them promptly. We remain committed to improving infrastructure and delivering projects that will uplift every corner of this state.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a people-centred development agenda, assuring that all ongoing projects across various sectors will continue to align with the needs and priorities of the citizens.
Earlier in the day, the governor presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Ijare Central Market. This initiative aims to boost local commerce and further enhance the economic growth of the community.
During his visit to the palace of the Alara of Ilara-Mokin, Oba Abiodun Aderemi Adefehinti, the monarch praised the governor’s strides in development and the inclusion of sons and daughters of Ifedore in strategic government positions.
The traditional ruler also outlined the pressing needs of the community, to which the governor pledged swift action, stating, “We will intensify our efforts to ensure all your requests are addressed without delay.”
Speaking to the large crowd of residents who came out to greet him, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s focus on delivering sustainable infrastructure and improved public services that will benefit all citizens.