•Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, absent

The Ondo State Executive Council, yesterday, passed a vote of confidence on Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu with a vow to continue to support him in his commitment to bringing development to the state.

The move by the cabinet members came amid the ongoing political feud between Akeredolu and his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

In a communiqué signed by 33 cabinet members of the state, the executive members said that their decision to pitch tent with the governor was hinged on his exemplary leadership, which they said, had been rewarding to the people and the state at large.

The communiqué, which was made available to The Guardian, was signed by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Oladunni Odu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Olugbenga Ale; Head of Service, Kayode Ogundele; 16 commissioners and 12 Special Advisers.

However, Commissioner for Energy, Mines and Mineral Resources, Razaq Obe and his Commerce, Industry and Cooperative counterpart, Akinwumi Sowore, did not sign the communiqué.

Also, Aiyedatiwa, who had been battling impeachment proceedings against him, was not in the list of the cabinet members present at the meeting.

The communiqué, titled “We Stand by Our Courageous Principal and Mentor,” reads in part: “In fulfilment of our dedicated responsibilities to advance the programmes and policies of the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu-led administration, encapsulated in the Redeemed agenda, aimed at enhancing the lives of the people and fostering development across the state, we proudly commend the people’s governor for the unprecedented progress under his leadership.

“As members of the State Executive Council, we have imbibed the principles of good governance, integrity, and commitment from the very best, Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON. The courage and exemplary leadership consistently displayed by the governor continue to motivate and inspire us to fulfil our duties.

“Without hesitation, the governor is a blessing to the good people of Ondo State. His leadership has been rewarding and inspirational. Governor Akeredolu is not only a worthy leader but also a national asset that passionately pursues the welfare of the country. This patriotic leadership is characterised by unwavering courage in leading the people of Sunshine State towards prosperity and progress.

“As the governor’s foot-soldiers, we take immense pride in being under his leadership. Witnessing his dedication, sleepless nights, and commitment to protecting and serving the people of the state, despite numerous challenges in the past, is truly admirable. His leadership embodies compassion, vision and commitment to development, progress and peace.”

“In Ondo State today, we are reaping the benefits of the governor’s courage. The Amotekun Corps, a product of the governor’s determination, has become a celebrated innovation in the security architecture of the state and the South-West in general. Since security is the primary objective of any government, the existence of Amotekun is a testament to Governor Akeredolu’s visionary leadership.

“Therefore, we unanimously declare our unflinching trust in the governor and endorse his impactful leadership. As a united front, we remain steadfast in our support for Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and pledge to continue working collaboratively towards the advancement and prosperity of the state.” (The Guardian)

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