Senate President, Bukola Saraki, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, on Sunday evening congratulated the Governor-Elect of Ondo State, Chief Rotimi Akeredolu SAN, over his victory in the Saturday governorship election in the state.
Saraki in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity Yusuph Olaniyonu, said Akeredolu’s victory did not come to him as surprise going by his excellent credentials and years of preparedness for the business of governance.
He urged the Governor-elect to be magnanimous in victory by ensuring that he works with all relevant stakeholders in the arduous task of moving the Sunshine State to the next level.
Saraki specifically urged Akeredolu to fully deploy his wealth of experience garnered over many years in private legal practice in running the affairs of the state.
He lauded the security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the peaceful conduct of the elections while thanking the people of Ondo State for voting for the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the elections.
Saraki said: “The people of Ondo have made a clear choice by voting for the APC. I can only assure the good people of Ondo that the APC and its flagbearer have all it takes to wipe away your tears and provide you the dividends of democracy that have hitherto eluded you.
“With Akeredolu on the saddle of governance, I have no doubt that the state will soon witness unparalleled development socially, economically and politically.
“Ondo could not have made a better choice than Akeredolu. Welcome on board!” he stated.
On his part, Dogara in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media & Public Affairs, Mr. Turaki Hassan, maintained that the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the election is a proof that the party is still loved by Nigerians.
His words: “The election of Barrister Akeredolu and the APC in Ondo state is a clear indication of the popularity of our political party.
“I would like to congratulate my learned colleague on his victory at the poll, and also commend our great party, the All Progressives Congress, for a thorough and successful campaign.”
The Speaker urged all stakeholders to come together and ensure that the incoming APC government in Ondo delivers on the mandate given by the people in line with the party’s manifesto.
“As a party, we must take our victory in Ondo seriously since the people have placed enormous trust in us. We must, therefore, deliver on policies that will improve their standard of living.”
While commending the people of Ondo state for keeping the election process peaceful and coming out to perform their civic duty; Dogara, also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and security agencies for ensuring a hitch-free exercise.
•Photo shows Saraki and Dogara.