Senator Ademola Nurudeen Adeleke of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has been sworn in as the Executive Governor of Osun State, South-west Nigeria.
Adeleke was sworn in at the Osogbo City Stadium on Sunday by the Chief Judge of Osun State, Hon. Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo.
Justice Adepele Ojo who earlier administered the oath of allegiance and oath of office on the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, also did the same on the new governor at about 11:50 a.m.
In his inaugural speech, Governor Adeleke reiterated his commitment to the welfare, peace and security of Osun state and said his inauguration marked the beginning of a new era in the state.
Adeleke, who noted that there might be challenges ahead of his government, said his determination and sense of purpose would see him through.
“Today, I stand on the podium of history with a sacred pledge to God and the good people of Osun state that my intellect, passion and strength will be devoted to nothing but the welfare, peace and security of our people.
“As I accept the mantle of leadership entrusted upon me by the people of our dear state, I am conscious of the enormous challenges and responsibilities ahead of me and will – beginning from this hour- work day and night with deep sense of purpose to be a servant to you all,” he added.
Governor Adeleke also called on all citizens and residents of the state to join hands with him to build a stronger, better and more virile economy for the state.
He said with the co-operation of all, every expectation would be met and all legitimate interests of every segment of the state would be adequately served:
“I am well aware of the fact that my responsibility as the Governor and Chief Security Officer of Osun state entails meeting the legitimate expectations of our people.
“Therefore, I promise that those expectations of the workers, traders, artisans, farmers, business owners, students, pensioners, traditional and religious leaders and indeed all residents of Osun state will be met by the grace of God and the cooperation of everyone.”
The Governor later inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Nigerian Police amidst loud cheers from the crowd of spectators.
Dignitaries who witnessed the inauguration included Governors Godwin Obaseki of Edo state, Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom state, Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state, Aminu Tambuwal of Kano state and Douye Diri of Bayelsa state.
Others were the PDP’s presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; his wife, Titi; the PDP’s National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu; the former Senate President, Olusola Saraki; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the former Ekiti state governor, Ayodele Fayose and many others.
