By Adeboye Ado, Akure
The Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly on Friday night at Bliss World Hotel in Akure hosted members of the recently dissolved 9th Assembly and the current members of the 10th Assembly.
Speaking at the dinner, Oladiji noted that he deliberately called the meeting because of his firm and unflinching belief in the fact that there is a strong need to build a formidable tie in the body of lawmakers in the Sunshine State.
“I was not only a member of the 9th Assembly, as the Deputy Majority Leader, I was a major stakeholder in the activities of the Assembly. To this end, l can say, boldly, without mincing words, that the experience garnered has prepared me for the current task.
“ Whenever I reflect on the numerous successes recorded during the 9th assembly of which I was a major stakeholder, I have this strong belief that there is much that unites us as a body of lawmakers.
“This is suffice to say that irrespective of our political affiliations , we have much to gain in our chosen course of ensuring adequate dispensation of democracy dividends, nay watering of such in the political firmament of our sunshine state, Ondo State,” he stated.
The speaker, who could not conceal his joy, expressed his gratitude with songs of praise and rhythmic steps of dance.
He explained that the unique occasion was not only meant for merry-making but to create a relaxed atmosphere through which as members of the same family, they could interact in a way to ventilate ideas that were positive to the development of the state.
According to him, being a speaker has bestowed upon him an enormous task of leadership, adding that the handful of success thus far attained since his assumption of office were made possible by God and unwavering support of the lawmakers.
“Distinguished colleagues, the tasks ahead require that we all put our hands on the plough, trusting in God and man to see us through.
“There is always strength in unity. There is much we can achieve together as a body of lawmakers. This is why I will continue to leverage on your colective strength and wisdom in our current drive to deliver the much needed democracy dividends to our people.
“My doors are open to advice and suggestions that would enhance our performance in office and by extension register our names in the sand of times. To this extent I want to state that this meeting will hold at intervals,” he said.
The speaker promised that the get-together party would be maintained to serve as an avenue to criss-cross opinions to move the state forward,urging that the opportunity should not be abused.
