AKURE, the Ondo State capital, stood still weekend as people from the 18 local government areas of the state and beyond converged on the city to celebrate three years of the administration of the state governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, in office.

Mimiko took over the mantle of leadership of the state when he was sworn-in on Tuesday, 24th February 2009 following the reclamation of his mandate through the judgement of the Court of Appeal, Benin City,   Edo State affirming his earlier victory at the Justice Garba Nabaruma-led Election Petition Tribunal.

The Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, venue of the anniversary parade and  performance, was filled  to the brim on Friday   with dignitaries from within and beyond Nigeria’s shores, Labour Party faithful, traditional rulers, professional and youth bodies, non-governmental organisations as well as top musicians and artistes.

Attendees included Mimiko’s wife, Olukemi; the deputy governor, Alhaji Ali Olanusi; his wife, Bejide; three former military administrators of the state, Rear Admiral Abiodun Olukoya (rtd), Col. Mike Torey (rtd), Col. Moses Fasanya (rtd), the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Dare Emiola and members of the state executive council.

Also at the ceremony were members of the state legislature, national chairman of the  Labour Party, Barrister Dan Iwuanyanwu; Ondo State chairman of the LP, Barrister  Olu Ogidan; the chairman of the state council of Obas and Deji of Akure, Oba Adebiyi Adesida, Amb. Roland Omowa, vice chancellor, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Prof. Femi Mimiko and LP state leader, Mr Soji Bello.

Musicians who thrilled the crowd at the occasion were led by juju maestro, King Sunny Ade. Others included  Adewale Ayuba, late Orlando Owoh’s son, Kunle; gospel musician, Funmi Aragbaye; Zion music exponent, Debo Ojubuyi; talking drummer, Aralola; late Madam Comfort Omoge’s group, Lord of Ajasa and Onikamesan.