Ondo @50: Aiyedatiwa Honours Founding Fathers,Unveils Bold Vision

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has celebrated the state’s Golden Jubilee by paying tribute to its founding fathers and successive leaders, crediting their vision for laying a strong foundation amid economic and security challenges. Speaking at a world press conference in Akure on Thursday, he described the milestone as “civilisational in significance,” urging reflection on the state’s origins from intense political agitation in the 1970s for closer governance and equity.

Founding Fathers’ Legacy

Aiyedatiwa singled out Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, the first civilian governor, as a “statesman of extraordinary integrity” who set benchmarks for public morality. He also honoured Pa Reuben Fasoranti, late Chief Ayo Fasanmi, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, late Barrister Deji Adegoroye, and Chief Gilbert B. Akinyede for their roles in the state creation movement, which unified rival factions through traditional rulers’ interventions and personal sacrifices like self-funding campaigns.

The governor extended appreciation to military pioneers like Wing Commander David Ikpeme and Colonel Moses Fasanya, as well as civilian successors including Bamidele Olumilua, Adebayo Adefarati, Olusegun Agagu, Olusegun Mimiko, and late Rotimi Akeredolu. First-generation public servants such as Chief Theophilus Iwajomo and Chief Elkanah Adeneye Emuleomo were praised for institutionalising governance.​

ADVERTISEMENT

Achievements and Jubilee Plans

Over five decades, Ondo has advanced in education, healthcare, agriculture, roads, and reforms, fueled by the “Ondo spirit” of perseverance despite demographic and environmental pressures. Jubilee events include interfaith services, a lecture series on “Ondo State Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” cultural exhibitions, and a gala with awards, as outlined by the planning committee chaired by SSG Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti.

Future Vision and Projects

Aiyedatiwa’s “OUR EASE” policy prioritises fiscal discipline, infrastructure like urban renewal and judiciary complexes, agriculture via sea ports and bitumen, plus security through agency partnerships. Key projects include approved refinery, fertiliser, and petrochemical plants with Q1 groundbreaking, alongside O’datiwa meters for regulated, affordable power distribution.

He envisions the next 50 years with knowledge-driven growth, digital innovation, sustainability, and inclusive prosperity, calling on locals and diaspora to own this shared heritage for a state that “shapes change.” This forward push builds on last year’s 49th anniversary pledges to maximise potentials.