Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has affirmed that the state is free from tribalism, emphasizing that people from all ethnic backgrounds will continue to be welcomed to live peacefully and pursue their businesses within the state.
The Governor stated this during a meeting with members of the Igbo community led by Chief Gregory Iloeika, Eze ndigbo of Akure/Ondo state and Ntional President, Association of Ndieze Ndigbo in Diaspora on Wednesday at the Cocoa Conference Hall in Akure.
During the meeting, Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed that despite differences in tribes and tongues, the shared identity as Nigerians binds everyone together, adding that unity and brotherhood should prevail, transcending any cultural or linguistic barriers.
The Governor reassured the Igbo community of his administration’s unwavering commitment to their well-being, adding that they should feel confident in reaching out to the government whenever they encounter any issues or challenges, promising that their concerns will be addressed promptly and with utmost care.
Earlier in his address, Chief Iloeika expressed profound gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for the appointment of Hon. Francis Belonwu, Hon. Barr. Isaiah Igwe, and Hon. Uche Okeafor as Special Assistants on Igbo Affairs across the state’s three senatorial zones and another Igbo as Senior Special Assistant on Non-indigenes.
He praised the Governor’s commitment to inclusivity and his support for the Igbo community in Ondo State, as well as his resilience and dedication in driving state’s development.
He also applauded the Governor’s execution of people-oriented projects and and policies and his remarkable ability to overcome challenges.
Addressing recent speculations about the Igbo community’s loyalty to the Governor, Iloeika reassured the Governor of the unwavering support of Ndigbo ahead of the coming governorship election in the State.
He emphasized the community’s readiness to play an active role in the election, reflecting their significant role in the state’s socio-economic progress over the years.
Eze Iloeika also dispelled rumors of factionalism within the Igbo community, asserting that any internal disagreements are resolved amicably, maintaining unity.
Tthose in attendance at the meeting included the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa and Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Engr Ade Adetimehin.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
August 28, 2024.