The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has called on Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, to temporarily delegate power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in order to prevent a constitutional crisis in the state.
In a statement issued by the party’s chairman in the state, Stephen Adewale, it was stated that the state has been in a state of paralysis since the governor’s absence, necessitating the constitutional delegation of power to his deputy to ensure the effective functioning of the state.
Adewale expressed concern over the prolonged uncertainty in governance, emphasizing that it would have a negative impact on the citizens and all sectors of the state.
While expressing well wishes for Akeredolu’s speedy recovery, the SDP chairman urged stakeholders to voice their opinions on the situation and the constitutional issues it has raised.
He highlighted that the absence of the state’s representation in recent meetings of governors with President Bola Tinubu has further underscored the need for a constitutional head to act in the governor’s absence.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Government has refuted speculations of disarray within the cabinet due to the governor’s ill-health.
The state government, through Commissioner for Information, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, stated that the executive council remains united and that the governor is not incapacitated.
However, a reliable source revealed that Akeredolu is expected to return to the state before the end of the month, which may lead to a reshuffling of the cabinet.
The source, requesting anonymity, stated that some cabinet members have been engaging in meetings to prepare for any eventualities in the state.
The government’s statement emphasized that the governor’s absence is temporary and that the reports of disunity within the cabinet are baseless and misleading.
It urged the public to disregard the rumors and affirmed that the governor has been effectively carrying out his duties. The statement also called on political opportunists to refrain from spreading falsehoods and creating unnecessary tensions in the state.
