Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Tuesday delivered a soul-stirring statewide broadcast to mark the 50th Anniversary of the creation of Ondo State.
Reflecting on the journey from February 3, 1976—when the late General Murtala Mohammed carved the state out of the old Western State— Aiyedatiwa described the milestone as a confluence of “memory and destiny.”
The governor paid a poignant tribute to the pioneers who transformed a collective dream into a political reality.
He recognised the Ondo Provincial Movement, led by the late Chief Gilbert Benjamin Akinyemi Akinyede and Deji Adegoroye, whose advocacy began in a humble nursery school room in 1973.
He also extended his gratitude to a living legend of the struggle.
“Using our revered living legend and foremost Leader of Afenifere Group, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, we honour the memory of those who have answered the final call and celebrate those still with us.”
Aiyedatiwa traced the state’s evolution from the era of Wing Commander Ita David Ikpeme, when ministries operated out of rented spaces, to the modern Alagbaka Secretariat Complex.
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He noted that even before statehood, Ondo Province was the “economic pillar” of the Western Region, through its massive contributions in cocoa, timber, and palm production.
In a show of statesmanship, the governor saluted all eighteen of his predecessors, both military and civilian, including: late Adekunle Ajasin and Bamidele Olumilua, Olusegun Agagu and Olusegun Mimiko, his immediate predecessor, the late Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
He acknowledged that their varied leadership styles—through military decrees and democratic reforms—built the foundation for the excellence the state enjoys today in medicine, law, and technology.
Looking toward the centenary, Aiyedatiwa called for a “renewal of purpose,” urging citizens to transcend political affiliations to build a state that competes globally.
He outlined his administration’s several key priorities.
In terms of security, Aiyedatiwa said he focused on strengthening the state’s framework to protect lives and property.
Regarding infrastructure, he said his government continues to invest in critical networks that connect rural and urban areas.
For youth and women, Aiyedatiwa said his administration emphasised empowerment through innovation and enterprise. Under sustainability, it aims to build productive and environmentally friendly communities.
“Ondo State is a living moral community, defined by resilience and ennobled by industry,” Aiyedatiwa declared. “Let us build a State that works; a State that cares… truly, a place of OUR EASE.”
The Golden Jubilee celebrations are expected to continue across the state’s 18 local government areas, marking half a century of progress since the historic 1976 proclamation.
