Ondo: Akeredolu’s Deputy Takes Over His Functions; Assembly Says Governor  On Sick Leave

By Ayodele Oni

Apparently envisaging  constitutional infraction the long absence of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu may lead to, Ondo State House of Assembly has stepped in and said it has received the letter of medical leave from the Governor.

Opposition parties, especially the Social Democratic Party (SDP), have severally demanded delegation of power to the Deputy Governor in the continued absence of the governor.

SDP said in a statement that the current vacuum caused by the governor’s absence is unnecessary if the constitutionally required step is taken.

The statement, signed by the Chairman, Stephen Adewale, states that “Ondo State and her friends must speak out on the increased level of uncertainty that hovered around the governance of our dear Sunshine State before it is too late.

“What began as a candlelight blaze is quickly snowballing into a sizable forest fire. And if we do not act quickly, history will not be kind to all of us who knew the incredible power of voice but chose silence.

“The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ondo State understands Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s health condition, for which we have been praying for a speedy recovery.”

The state legislature, through the Speaker, Olamide Oladiji, in a statement on Tuesday, explained that the Governor had embarked on a 21-day leave for medical treatment abroad starting from 7th of June,2023 to 6th July,2023.

According to the letter, the leave which commenced on 7th of June,extends to 6th July,2023 due to the Public Holidays on June 12(Democracy Day) and Eid el Kabir(28th and 29th,June,2023)

He explained that the Governor, who had directed his Deputy,Hon.Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to act as the Governor while away, has assured of his resumption on the 6th of July, 2023.

The Speaker had earlier described the Governor as a lover of peace and an apostle of rule of law. He later, wished him speedy recovery and joyful vacation.