Akure – Mr Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), the Governor-elect in the just concluded governorship election in Ondo State has promised not to fail the people of the state.
The governor-elect said this while delivering his acceptance speech in his hometown, Owo on Sunday.
Akeredolu, the candidate of All Progressives Congress ( APC), was declared the winner of the election with 244, 842 votes.
The Returning Officer, Prof. Abdulganiyu Ambali, said his closest rivals: Mr Eyitayo Jegede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) polled 150, 380, while Chief Olusola Oke of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) scored 126,889 votes.
Akeredolu dedicated his victory to God and said it reflected the need for the people for quality leadership.
He commended President Muhammadu Buhari, APC National Chairman, Chief John Oyegun and the party’s National Working Committee for their unrelenting support.
“I wish to express my profound gratitude, first, to the Almighty God whose infinite grace has allowed us to see this day.
“This victory is of God through the people. It is not for me or the APC alone, it is also a victory for the people of Ondo state, irrespective of which side of the divide you stood during the election.
“For me, it is a challenge to perform; it is a call to rescue our state and reverse its fortunes.
“I thank the people of my dear state for their steadfastness.
“I have heard their messages throughout the campaign to all the nooks and crannies of the state. Today, you have spoken with one voice.
“You have walked your talk. You have voted for me as your governor for the next four years,” he said.
He pledged to address all issues with keen determination, adding that welfare of the people would be the directive policy of his administration.
“Today’s victory is a confirmation of the willingness and readiness of the people of Ondo state to change and seek a better life. I thank you for your faith and confidence in me.
“I thank all those whose uncommon sacrifices contributed in no small measure to the success of the exercise.
“A special show of gratitude must be extended to our security agents for their patriotic duty.
“I shall in few months be saddled with the task of providing responsible leadership that will take our people away from poverty and stagnation.
“This leadership will lead to productivity and prosperity; from pains and lamentation to joy and laughter.
“It is the sole reason you have voted for me and by the grace of God I will not fail you,” he said.
