The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said that Nigeria’s democratic journey, despite the losses suffered in the past, continues to yield gains that must be consolidated to build a more inclusive and accountable society.
He made this assertion on Thursday, during the commemoration of the 32nd anniversary of the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, an event now recognised as Democracy Day held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure.
The Governor described the June 12, 1993, presidential election, won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political history. He recalled that the election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the nation’s history, was annulled, thus denying the country an opportunity for a more accelerated democratic evolution.
“Today, we commemorate a pivotal moment in our democratic journey as a country. The June 12 election was not only a watershed that has had lasting impacts on our country’s democratic journey, it has strengthened our collective struggle for freedom, justice and the Rule of Law,” he said.
Reflecting on the theme of this year’s commemoration, June 12: Losses and Gains in Relationship to Today’s Democratic Realities in Nigeria, the Governor noted that the occasion was not only for remembrance but also a moment for reflection on how far the country has come.
He said the past interruptions to democratic rule had led to negative consequences such as economic stagnation, limited access to social services, weakened civic engagement, and widespread human rights abuses. However, he acknowledged that since the return to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria has recorded considerable democratic progress.
“In spite of the challenges we faced, we have made notable progress in the consolidation of our democratic institutions. Citizens now enjoy greater freedom to express their opinions, assemble, and constructively criticise the government without fear of arrest or harassment,” he said.
Dr. Aiyedatiwa paid tributes to the late Chief MKO Abiola for his supreme sacrifice in the quest for democracy and to other pro-democracy activists who played critical roles during the struggle, including Pa Reuben Fasoranti, HRH Oba Olu Falae, Balarabe Musa, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Madam Kudirat Abiola, Chief Abraham Adesanya, and various human rights organisations and student bodies.
He also used the occasion to highlight the achievements of his administration since assuming office, noting that his government has remained people-driven and committed to promoting good governance, security, workers’ welfare, education, infrastructure, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted a wide range of achievements under his administration aimed at improving governance and service delivery across Ondo State.
These include significant investments in education, enhanced welfare for workers and pensioners, improved student support initiatives, and strengthened security infrastructure.
He also referenced major road and health projects, economic support for small businesses, rural development efforts, and initiatives to boost agricultural productivity and access to electricity.
“Since the commencement of our administration, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that it is people-driven. We are putting adequate security measures in place to ensure peace and safety of lives and property throughout the state,” the Governor noted.
He urged Nigerians, especially the people of Ondo State, to remain committed to democratic ideals and to continue supporting leaders who prioritise accountability, transparency, and the welfare of the people.
In his lecture titled “Losses and Gains in Relation to Today’s Democratic Realities in Nigeria,” Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, represented by Ondo State Attorney General, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, described June 12 as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and hope for a better Nigeria.
He said the day invites reflection on the historic 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest, which was annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.
Bamidele outlined the losses of June 12, including democratic betrayal, suppression of voices, and delayed political development. However, he said the gains include 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, national recognition of Abiola, increased civic awareness, and ongoing institutional reforms.
He noted that President Bola Tinubu, a frontline figure in the June 12 struggle, has continued its legacy through ambitious reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on economic stability, national security, and improved governance.
Earlier, the chairman of the event, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, said it is the duty of Governor Aiyedatiwa to keep the spirit of democracy alive, adding that Ondo State played a crucial role in the pro-democracy movement. He emphasized that democracy must deliver real benefits to the people, and urged the governor to strengthen public trust by deepening democratic values.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, described the day as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s history and commended the governor for his commitment to upholding democratic ideals.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker, Ondo State of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Ayedun, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philips, members of Ondo State House of Assembly, traditional rulers, religious leaders, Permanent Secretaries, political leaders, labour leaders, political appointees, top government functionaries, among others.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
June 12, 2025.
GOV AIYEDATIWA LAUNCHES FG'S N1.2B CONDITIONAL CASH TRANSER IN ONDO STATE
- 16, 255 residents in 18 LGs to get N75k via personalised debit cards
The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said his administration will continue to prioritize social inclusion and economic empowerment of vulnerable citizens through strategic partnerships with the Federal Government.
He made this commitment during the official flag-off ceremony of the second phase of the Conditional Cash Transfer disbursement to beneficiaries in Ondo State, held at the Akure South Local Government Secretariat on Friday.
At the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa launched the distribution of the Renewed Hope Debit Cards to thousands of beneficiaries as part of the Federal Government’s National Social Investment Programme (NSIP), implemented in collaboration with the Ondo State Government through the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA).
Addressing the gathering, the Governor expressed joy and a deep sense of responsibility, noting that the initiative is a bold step towards fulfilling the promise of “Renewed Hope” and improving the lives of the people of Ondo State.
“Today, we take yet another bold step in our ongoing commitment to improving the welfare of our people, ensuring social inclusion and fulfilling the promise of Renewed Hope for all,” he declared.
According to Governor Aiyedatiwa, a total of 16, 255 beneficiaries across all 18 Local Government Areas in the state will receive ₦75, 000 each, disbursed in monthly installments of ₦25, 000 for three months, directly through their debit cards. He said the total amount injected into the scheme is ₦1, 219, 125, 000, providing direct economic support to thousands of households.
The Governor recalled that in November 2024, a total of 8, 637 debit cards were distributed to beneficiaries, amounting to ₦647, 775, 000, making the current phase a significant expansion of the social safety net.
“We understand the economic challenges that many of our people face and this programme is a clear demonstration that the government stands with you,” the Governor added.
He further disclosed that efforts are ongoing to expand the state’s social register to accommodate more vulnerable households, stressing that no vulnerable household should be left behind.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development for sustaining the programme and prioritizing the well-being of ordinary Nigerians.
“To our esteemed beneficiaries, I urge you to use these funds wisely, invest in your families, support your businesses, and ensure that this opportunity translates to meaningful progress in your lives,” the Governor said.
In his welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment, Mr. Alonge Felix Kolawole, described the programme as a reflection of the Governor’s “Our Ease” agenda aimed at making life easier, particularly for women and persons with disabilities.
He stated that thousands benefited during the first phase and emphasized that the selection process was devoid of favoritism or political influence, relying solely on Community-Based Targeting Enumeration.
In his goodwill message, the State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. James Adekunle, commended the initiative, stating that Ondo State remains one of the few states that havs fully keyed into the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu. He praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his proactive efforts in bringing national programmes to the people of the state.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Hon. Gbenga Fasua, thanked the Governor for his commitment to poverty alleviation. He described the Governor as a divinely chosen leader, citing the impact of his programmes in transforming lives across the state.
The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, who also graced the occasion, praised the Governor’s leadership and alignment with the federal government’s Renewed Hope agenda.
He stated that the people of Ondo State made the right decision in entrusting their future to Governor Aiyedatiwa, noting that the Governor has not disappointed.
Giving the Vote of Thanks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship, Mr. Gbayisemore Orioye, thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa for his support for the initiative which has led to Ondo State becoming the third state in the country to begin the implementation of the scheme.
One of the beneficiaries, Falaye Emmanuel, could not hide his excitement as he expressed gratitude to the government for the financial support, describing the cash transfer as timely and a great relief to his household.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, member representing Akure South Constituency 1 in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Stephen Abitogun, traditional rulers, LCDA Chairmen, political leaders, and other top government functionaries.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
June 13, 2025.
Post a Comment