••• Swears in New LG Chairmen, Vice Chairmen
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday swore in the newly elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Areas restating that the 33 Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs will not be abolished.
Aiyedatiwa made the declaration in Akure the state capital at the swearing in ceremony of the newly elected local government chairmen in the state.
The local government election was conducted on January 18, 2025, in which candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured victory across all 18 Local Government Areas and 203 Councillorship positions.
Addressing the chairmen, Aiyedatiwa said, “Again, let me reiterate that the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) have come to stay.
“They are a creation of law, to further bring government closer to the people of Ondo State. We have a collective duty to ensure their survival.
“At all times, they must enjoy mutual trust and inclusivity from the parent local governments.
“I must remind the elected Chairmen that the oath you have just taken is not a mere formality but a solemn promise to serve our people with integrity, honesty, and transparency,” the governor stated.
“It is a commitment to deliver on the manifesto of our party and to improve the lives of our people at the grassroots level.”
He charged the newly elected leaders to prioritise public welfare, ensure accountability, and collaborate with legislative councils and public servants.
Aiyedatiwa commended the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) for conducting a peaceful and credible election and acknowledged the contributions of security agencies, election monitors, civil society organisations, and opposition parties in strengthening democracy.
He also extended gratitude to the outgoing Transition Committee Chairmen, assuring them that their contributions would be remembered.
“As we embark on this journey, let us work together to build a brighter future for our people. Side by side, we will deliver the dividends of good governance that our citizens deserve,” he added.
Following the swearing-in, some of the newly elected Chairmen expressed their commitment to delivering effective governance at the grassroots level.
Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Gbenga Fasua, described his election as an opportunity to drive meaningful development.
“I feel elated and deeply honoured to be entrusted with this responsibility. My administration will be focused on infrastructural development, ensuring that our communities witness significant progress in road construction, public facilities, and other critical projects,” he said.
He also pledged to prioritise empowerment programmes, particularly for youths and women, to boost economic opportunities and tackle unemployment. He called on corporate organisations and private investors to partner with the local government in fostering sustainable development.
Similarly, Chairman of Akoko North-East Local Government, Muhammed Mutiu, assured residents of his dedication to making a difference.
