Lawmakers in the Ondo State House of Assembly are gearing up to officially declare Governor Rotimi Akeredolu unfit for office. Their plan involves appointing his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as the acting governor.
Akeredolu’s health issues triggered this move. Earlier, he had transferred power to his deputy in May to prioritize his recovery. However, upon his return from medical leave, a power struggle emerged between Akeredolu’s supporters and the acting governor.
Despite claims that Akeredolu resumed office in September, he has not returned to the Sunshine State, residing instead in Ibadan. Governance seems to be running on autopilot, given Akeredolu’s absence and perceived inaction from Aiyedatiwa, creating a political vacuum exploited by those eyeing the 2024 governorship election.
Lawmakers intend to hold a session addressing the political crisis, prompted by criticism over their perceived silence regarding Akeredolu’s prolonged absence due to health reasons.
The national APC leadership’s involvement has stirred discussions within the assembly. The agenda includes declaring Aiyedatiwa as the acting governor, despite opposition from some lawmakers, despite the APC’s support.
The House Committee on Information’s Chairman, Mr. Olatunji Oshati, confirmed the meeting, highlighting that they would discuss the political deadlock, yet keeping the precise agenda under wraps.
To defuse the escalating tensions, President Bola Tinubu plans to meet key political figures in Ondo. This Abuja meeting, convened by Tinubu, aims to tackle the reported political crisis involving major Ondo APC stakeholders and State Assembly members.
Alex Kalejaye, the APC spokesman in Ondo, acknowledged the upcoming meeting, expressing hope that the presidency’s intervention would calm the ongoing political discord. This intervention is seen as a crucial step toward resolving the persistent issues during Akeredolu’s absence.