The Ondo State House of Assembly on Wednesday, Dec. 13, declared the Deputy Governor of the state, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as acting governor following the transmission of power by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
The Assembly, which confirmed the receipt of the letter, disclosed that Akeredolu would be embarking on medical leave for the fifth time since the inception of his administration.
According to the Speaker of the Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, the action of the governor was in line with Section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
The Speaker added that Aiyedatiwa would continue to act until there is a written declaration contrary to that effect.
He said: “Following the doctor’s advice on the need for medical follow-up after recuperating,Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, has forwarded the letter on medical leave to the State House of Assembly.
“Receiving the letter on behalf of other lawmakers, the Speaker,Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon.Olamide Oladiji, said the governor’s action is in line with Section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“According to the letter,his deputy, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, would now assume the responsibilities of the governor in an acting capacity until there is a written declaration to the contrary.
“The leave is expected to commence on Wednesday, December 13, 2023.”
Oladiji, who expressed appreciation to God for the speedy recovery of the governor, expressed optimism that he would soon resume his duty.
Meanwhile, Aiyedatiwa has returned to the state after the meeting held with President Bola Tinubu and some political stakeholders over the political logjam in the state two days ago.
Aiyedatiwa, who landed at Akure Airport on Wednesday afternoon, was received by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Ifedayo Abegunde.
Recall that the absence of the governor had resulted in heightened political tension in the states, with calls that power should be transmitted to Aiyedatiwa in order to ensure smooth governance of the state.
Also, the development had resulted in division among members of the State Executive Council, with some commissioners pitching tents with Aiyedatiwa, followed by the allegation of forgery of the governor’s signature.