The Chief Judge of Ekiti, Justice Ayodeji Daramola, on Wednesday swore-in Prof. Modupe Adelabu as the state new Deputy Governor barely 24 hours after being screened by the House of Assembly.
The event, which took place at the Lady Jibowu Hall of Government House, Ado-Ekiti, attracted large crowd.
Prominent traditional rulers who witnessed the swearing-in of the Professor of Education, include the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade and the Deji of Akure, Oba Adebiyi Adesida.
Retired Gen. Alani Akinrinade, Chief Pius Akinyelure, former Governor Niyi Adebayo as well as members of the National Assembly from the state were among the other dignitaries that witnessed the occasion.
In his speech, Gov. Kayode Fayemi said the new deputy governor never lobbied for the job, adding that she was selected on merit and her track record in public office.
“I know Prof. Adelabu to be a woman of honour and a round peg in a round hole.
“Let me use the opportunity of this gathering to disclose here today that I did not pick her because she is a native of Ado-Ekiti or because she is a princess.
“I opted for her because leadership has been genetically implanted in her as a result of good home and sound background,” the governor said.
Fayemi urged the new deputy governor to bring her age-long experience in public service to bear in her new job.
He thanked members of the House of Assembly for screening and confirming her appointment within a week of notice.
In her maiden address, Adelabu expressed gratitude to the governor for counting her worthy of the exalted position of deputy governor.
She promised to be a reliable partner and co-worker in the task of building a new Ekiti.
She said that her late predecessor would be happy in grave that her own sister was the person that was chosen to replace her.
Adelabu vowed to continue with the good work that the late deputy governor started.
