Fidelis David in Akure
Ondo State Governor, Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, will on Wednesday commence another round of medical leave as a follow-up to his medical treatment.
Recall that Governor Akeredolu returned from Germany on September 7 2023, after a three-month medical leave and has since remained in his private residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital where he has been performing his official duties, a move which has generated lots of criticism.
However, a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, made available to Journalists in Akure on Tuesday revealed that a formal letter regarding the medical leave and a notice formally transferring power in line with the Nigerian Constitution will be transmitted to the House of Assembly.
It emphasised that in the absence of Akeredolu, the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, will assume the responsibilities of the Governor in acting capacity.
“During his medical leave, Governor Akeredolu will prioritise his health and ensure a full recovery before resuming his official duties.
“Governor Akeredolu expresses his gratitude for the unwavering support and affection of the people of Ondo State. He assures them that his administration remains committed to the path of progress and prosperity for the people.
“As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a widely respected Nigerian, Governor Akeredolu has consistently delegated power to his deputy during his annual vacations. This practice was observed on April 1, 2021, April 1, 2022, April 3, 2023, and July 10, 2023, when he embarked on previous vacations”, the statement added.
Besides, barely two weeks ago, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Kayode Ajulo, alleged that some government officials in Ondo were forging the signature of Akeredolu on documents.
Speaking in an interview on Arise TV, Ajulo alleged that the absence of Akeredolu since June 2023 has created a huge vacuum in the state.
The lawyer who is an indigene of the state also alleged that some cabals had hijacked the governance of the sunshine state since Akeredolu did not properly hand over to Lucky Aiyedatiwa, his deputy, positing that the deputy governor should be the acting governor in the absence of the governor. He added that any other arrangement was illegal.
Also, last Thursday, the Ondo State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Razaq Obe, wrote the Deputy Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, alleging forgery of Akeredolu’s signature on official documents.
Obe, in a letter dated December 7, 2023 confirmed the irregularities in the signature of his principal.
