In a landmark political triumph, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been declared the winner of the 2024 Ondo State gubernatorial election.
Securing an unprecedented victory, Governor Aiyedatiwa swept all 18 local government areas, amassing 366,781 votes to defeat his closest rival, Mr. Agboola Ajayi of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 117,845 votes.
This record-breaking tally marks the highest number of votes ever recorded by a candidate in the state’s history.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, addressing a jubilant crowd and journalists at the Government House in Akure, expressed profound gratitude to the people of Ondo State.
“This is not just my victory; it is a victory for all the people of Ondo State. I am deeply honored by the overwhelming support and trust you have placed in me to continue leading our great state,” Aiyedatiwa said. “This mandate is yours, and it reinforces my resolve to work tirelessly for the betterment of every citizen.”
He pledged to run an inclusive government, emphasizing the welfare of citizens and economic growth:
“As your Governor, I promise to continue to run an inclusive and participatory government where every citizen has a voice. We will foster economic growth and ensure that our state remains a beacon of hope and prosperity for generations to come.”
The Governor lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for organizing a credible election and commended security agencies for maintaining peace throughout the process.
“Let me commend INEC for conducting a free, fair, and credible election. The security agencies deserve our gratitude for their professionalism in maintaining peace throughout the exercise,” he remarked.
Aiyedatiwa also expressed appreciation for the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, APC National Chairman Dr. Umar Ganduje, and the National Campaign Council led by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
“I must appreciate President Tinubu for providing exemplary leadership and ensuring a level playing ground in the just concluded election.
My gratitude also goes to the APC campaign team, party leaders, and my family for their unwavering support,” he said.
The Governor dedicated his victory to God and the memory of late Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, pledging to honor his legacy.
The APC National Chairman, Dr. Ganduje, emphasized the party’s growing dominance in the South-West region and outlined plans to reclaim Osun and Oyo States from PDP control.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, joined by ten other APC governors, praised the people of Ondo State for their peaceful conduct during the election.
Governor Aiyedatiwa extended an olive branch to opposition parties, urging them to join hands in building a stronger and more united Ondo State.
“This is a time for unity and collaboration. Together, we can create a brighter future for our Sunshine State,” he concluded.
