PDP urges Akeredolu to hand over power to Deputy Gov Aiyedatiwa

The Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to transfer executive powers to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, citing concerns over the economic standstill caused by the governor’s prolonged absence due to ill health.

Fatai Adams, the state chairman of PDP, expressed the party’s discontent with the prevailing situation, asserting that the absence of Governor Akeredolu has led to economic stagnation in the state.

Adams emphasised the necessity for governance to continue smoothly and urged the governor to delegate authority to his deputy.

Addressing the press in Akure, Adams expressed apprehension about the potential exploitation of the governance vacuum by certain elements within the government.

He raised concerns about the lack of clear leadership in government business, stressing that the state is in dire need of effective leadership to navigate through current challenges.

“We are, however, deeply concerned about the ruinous cost the health challenge of the governor has bestowed upon the state; the most obvious is the emergence of a cabal, largely informal, that has seized every initiative, mindlessly driving our state to penury,” remarked Adams.

Adams asserted that the state’s finances are being compromised, with resources being exploited by various interest groups both within and outside the government, adversely impacting development and overall well-being.

Reiterating the party’s call for the transmission of power to the deputy governor, Adams reminded Governor Akeredolu of his advice to the late President Umaru Yar’Adua during his illness.

He urged the governor to prioritise his health and adhere to his previous counsel to the late president by temporarily relinquishing power to his deputy.

“It is now crystal clear that Akeredolu’s doctors have since instructed him to stay away from his office and state; this certainly highlights the fact that he is currently not fit to handle state matters.

“We urge Mr Governor to please use his advice to the late President Yar’Adua and transmit power to the deputy governor in the interest of our dear state,” Adams said.

Governor Akeredolu has been away from the state, residing at his private residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, since returning from a medical vacation in Germany in September.