Amidst the resolution of the prolonged crisis between factions loyal to Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Presidency has clarified that Akeredolu remains the governor of the state. This clarification followed reports suggesting that President Bola Tinubu might direct state lawmakers to declare Aiyedatiwa as the acting governor under the doctrine of necessity.
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, issued a statement on Saturday affirming Akeredolu’s status as the governor. The President’s intervention involved extensive negotiations with key stakeholders, including representatives of Governor Akeredolu, federal and state lawmakers from Ondo, officials of the state’s APC chapter, and other stakeholders.
The statement emphasized President Tinubu’s advice for all opposing parties to reconcile and prioritize peace, leading to commitments from the involved parties. As a result, Akeredolu retains his position as the Chief Executive of the State, Aiyedatiwa as Deputy Governor, and the State Executive Council members continue their respective duties. The leadership of the State’s House of Assembly and the APC Chapter in Ondo State also remain intact.
