In a recent turn of events, tensions have escalated between Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State and his deputy, Lucky Ayedatiwa, regarding the transfer of power during the governor’s incapacitation. Reports indicate that Ayedatiwa is allegedly positioning himself to challenge Akeredolu’s authority.
Sources within the government in Akure, the state capital, have revealed that Governor Akeredolu is fully aware of his deputy’s scheming and ambitious intentions to seize power. The trouble initially arose when Governor Akeredolu went on vacation, entrusting the responsibilities of his office to the deputy governor.
During his short stint as acting governor, allegations have emerged suggesting that Ayedatiwa prioritized personal interests over those of the state and the governor. Some members of the Executive Council have accused the deputy governor of spreading rumors about the governor’s health.
According to an anonymous source, “The deputy governor is behind all these circulating stories. What actually happened was that after the Cabinet meeting three weeks ago and the subsequent courtesy visits, the governor decided to take some time to rest.”
The source continued, “The truth is, Aketi is a workaholic. Often, we are the ones who have to insist that he takes a break. After the strenuous work he did three weeks ago, he was resting at the government house in Akure. However, some individuals kept disturbing him at his residence.”
It was revealed that Governor Akeredolu had traveled to Ibadan for much-needed rest, unbeknownst to his deputy or close aides. During this time, Ayedatiwa visited the governor in Ibadan, bringing along some files. However, he failed to inform the governor or his close aides about the visit, leading to a lack of communication between the two.
Upon his return to Akure, Governor Akeredolu discovered that his deputy had been spreading rumors about his health and attempting to garner support for a transfer of power. The governor’s associates became aware of the truth only after contacting him directly.
Meanwhile, reports have emerged that Ayedatiwa has formed a faction within the cabinet, promising a commissioner the deputy governor position if power is transferred to him. Two commissioners are already vying for the position, and a Special Adviser has also joined Ayedatiwa’s camp in the hopes of securing a federal government appointment.
In response to these developments, a group known as the Renewed Mandate Progressives Forum (RMPF) has cautioned the deputy governor against causing confusion in the state by attempting to seize power. The group, represented by Coordinator Maxwell Olajuni, alleges that Ayedatiwa is inciting other cabinet members against Governor Akeredolu.
The statement issued by the RMPF read, “We have reliable information that the deputy governor has made plans to challenge the governor for his seat. We are aware that Mr. Governor has been facing health challenges, but we have observed his recovery and his continued functioning.”
The group further criticized Ayedatiwa’s alleged attempts to blackmail the governor using his health status, stating that he should wait until 2024 to contest for the governorship and allow Governor Akeredolu to complete his tenure.
In response to these allegations, the deputy governor maintains his unwavering loyalty to Governor Akeredolu. Speaking through one of his aides, Ayedatiwa dismissed the claims as figments of the imagination of political jobbers aiming to create tension between him and the governor.
Denying any split within the cabinet, the State Information and Orientation Commissioner, Bamidele Ademola
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