Akure — Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State, was yesterday sworn-in as the fifth democratically elected governor of the state, and he promised to enhance the quality of life of the people.
He, however, warned that in the next four years political office holders in the state “must cease from looking at government and service as a goldmine. We must acknowledge that the good of all translates into the good of the individuals and not necessarily vice versa.”
Dr. Mimiko was sworn in alongside his Deputy Alhaji Ali Olanusi, by the Chief Judge of the State, Justice Olasehinde Kumuyi, at 1.05p.m. and 12.40p.m. respectively.
Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko
Yesterday’s ceremony was witnessed by two Action Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, governors Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State and Ibikunle Amosu of Ogun State who was represented by his Deputy Chief Segun Adesegun. Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, governor, Alhaji Tanko Almakura, of Nassarawa State was also present.
Others were Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State, Theodore Orji of Abia State and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade and all the traditional rulers in the state.
Also present were former Head of State, General Abdusalam Abubakar, Aliko Dangote, Great Ogboru, Health minister, Onyebuchi Chukwu; Oba Otudeko, Tunji Braithwait. former Governor Gbenga Daniel, Ayo Adebanjo and Ayo Fayose.
Others included Olu Falae, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, Fredrick Fasheun, Gani Adams, Chief Ade Ajayi, former Governor Rasheed Ladoja, amongst other personalities across the country.
Governor Mimiko said: “Far from relenting, we shall in the next four years take governance closer to the people by posting greater achievements on all fronts.
“We will ensure the completion of all outstanding projects. We will also, over the next four years, unveil a new stream of programmes directed at enhancing the quality of life of our people.
“Our major focus shall be on an aggressive drive at job creation for our teeming youths through innovative and durable programmes that will engender sustainable livelihood.
“To this end, government is undertaking a 30MW Independent Power Project in Ore to provide power that will attract several industries to Ondo State. When completed, Ore’s status not only as a major national commercial centre but as well an industrial hub will be a reality.”
He said the on-going International Events Centre, The Dome would be completed this year while the state’s residency card, ‘Kaadi Igbe Ayo’ would be launched next month.
Dr. Mimiko appreciated the support of the artisans, market women, farmers, public servants, labour leaders, road transport workers, including commercial motorcycle operators (Okada riders), royal fathers, religious leaders, retirees, captains of industry and the students and youths.
According to him: “To all, we say, the story of today will be written in years to come and your doggedness, tenacity, consistency and overall incorruptibility will be recorded for the attention of generations to come.
“We must show appreciation to Mr. President, Dr. for guaranteeing the ambiance for a free, fair and peaceful election through the timely and most responsible deployment of security operatives.
“We pray for more grace and strength for Mr. President to take our nation unto greater heights.”
Speaking on regional integration, he said: “We are convinced that the totality of the concept of progressivism, which the late sage represented, is about using the instrumentality of government to make choices on behalf of the majority of our people.
“To us, being progressive means democratisation of access to fundamentals of good living.”
