GOVERNOR AIYEDATIWA HOSTS OYO GOVERNOR SEYI MAKINDE IN AKURE
— “I’m happy Aiyedatiwa is building on his predecessor’s legacies,” says Makinde
By Exponent News, Akure — July 17, 2025
Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday, July 17, 2025, played host to his Oyo State counterpart, Engr. Seyi Makinde, at the Government House in Akure.
Governor Makinde was in Akure to participate in activities marking the 10th Coronation Anniversary of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II.
Welcoming the Oyo Governor at the Presidential Lodge, Governor Aiyedatiwa congratulated him on the chieftaincy title slated to be conferred on him by the traditional ruler.
He noted that leadership should transcend political party lines, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and collaboration among leaders.
“My brother, I welcome you back home. Akure is your home, and I congratulate you on the chieftaincy honour to be conferred on you by Kabiyesi, the Deji of Akure,” Aiyedatiwa said.
“This honour is not merely because you’re a governor, but because you are a good leader of your people—worthy of recognition and celebration.”
In his response, Governor Makinde expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality and reaffirmed the historical and cultural ties between Oyo and Ondo States.
Makinde, whose mother hails from Akure, said he always feels a deep emotional connection to Ondo State and looks forward to every opportunity to visit.
“I feel at home whenever I’m in Ondo. I thank my brother Governor for the warm reception,” Makinde said. “The bond between Oyo and Ondo States will only continue to grow stronger.”
He also commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for sustaining the legacies of his late predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, particularly in continuing the funding of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun.
Makinde described the peaceful atmosphere in the state as a reflection of good governance and proactive leadership.
Accompanying the Oyo State Governor on the visit were Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, a member of the Oyo State Governor’s Advisory Council, and Chief Bayo Lawal, Executive Adviser on General Duties.
Present at the reception were key officials from the Ondo State Government, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Johnson Alabi; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN; Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Otunba Adewale Akinlosotu; Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan; and the Director General of OSRC, Mr. Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson.
