Ondo: Akeredolu’s Son In Eye of the Storm

By Tosin Olatokunbo

The Governor Rotimi Akeredolu-led administration has denied that his son, Babajide has hijacked the government from his father. The governors’ son is being accused of undue interference in government business and highhandedness.

But in a swift reaction, the state government said nothing could be farther from the truth, adding that Governor Akredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN is till in charge.

According to a statement by the Commissioner for information and Orientation, Donald Ojogo, those peddling the rumour were only out to smear the government image and bring the governor to disrepute. The diabolical plot against the governor and his family, the statement said will fail.

The statement reads in part, “the plan, which was hatched and orchestrated by these individuals, particularly, targeted the Governor’s son, Babajide Akeredolu, on allegations of high handedness and interference with serious government decisions, especially as it relates to the economic activities at the government reserves.

“Succinctly, the purveyors of this heinous plot have perfected plans to lie against the Governor and his son of attempting to take over the management of the forest reserves so as to corner the resources for personal gains.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Akeredolu handles the business of government with utmost respect and accountability. The government decision to ban all logging activities and subsequent lifting of the ban, are all in the interest of the state.

“This government is exploring all avenues and blocking loopholes to shore up its Internally Generated Revenue so as to ensure that more funds are brought into the government coffers to drive development in the state.

“We will not fold arms and allow disgruntled elements ruin the gains that have been recorded and being consolidated on, in the state.

“Under this administration, we have recorded significant progress and growth in our IGR. For a government that has shown accountability and readiness to explore all economic angles for the progress of the state in the past four year, it is not only laughable but, preposterous for any disgruntled group to suggest that Governor Akeredolu’s son was planning to man the ministry of natural resources for personal gain,” Ojogo said.