Olayide Owolabi Adelami Sworn in as Ondo Deputy Gov

Mr. Olayide Owolabi Adelami, the newly appointed Deputy Governor of Ondo State, was officially sworn in by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Olusegun Odusola, at the International Conference Centre (The Dome) in Akure, the state capital, on Thursday.

During the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa expressed confidence in Adelami's capabilities and his potential contribution to the progress of the state. Governor Aiyedatiwa described Adelami as a seasoned technocrat, administrator, philanthropist, and politician who had served the nation creditably at various levels, including as Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly before retiring.

The Governor stated, "He is an urbane gentleman who had paid his dues in the service and development of Ondo State, and the nation at large. I have no doubt that finding himself again in a familiar terrain, he will serve with integrity, devotion, loyalty, and accountability."

Governor Aiyedatiwa urged the new deputy governor to provide fresh ideas and new drive to support the administration's legacy projects, build a sustainable socio-economic base in line with the REDEEMED agenda, and elevate the politics of the state to a higher level of humility, justice, and harmony.

While emphasizing the administration's zero tolerance for corruption, Governor Aiyedatiwa said, "We expect you to demonstrate transparent, open, and accountable leadership in your new office. You must also avoid discrimination as you have the entire state as your constituency, rather than serving sectional interests."

The governor also highlighted the achievements since his inauguration on December 27, 2023, including the acceleration of the preparation of the 2024 state budget, the payment of N1.2 billion gratuity to pensioners, and the timely payment of workers' salaries, demonstrating the administration's commitment to its promises.

Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed satisfaction that the people of Ondo State are pleased with the various policies and actions implemented within the short span of his assumption of office.

In his acceptance speech, the new Deputy Governor, Adelami, appreciated the state governor for the opportunity to serve the state.

“Mr. governor, I hereby wholeheartedly accept to be your deputy and my loyalty to you will be total. To the good people of Ondo State, I’m here to join hands with Governor Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa to serve you and ensure that lives are made more meaningful for you in all facets.

“To our good people of Ondo State, by the Grace of God Almighty who in His Will, arranged this day to come, we will not let you down. I want to therefore appeal to all our good people of Ondo State at home and abroad to kindly support Mr. Governor and myself, in our sincere desire to entrench good governance in our Sunshine State.”