VAM News Update
Ondo State is gripped with tension as the State House of Assembly gears up for its first plenary session on Tuesday, November 28, after discussions with President Bola Tinubu to address the ongoing political crisis.
Following the meeting, conflicting interpretations surfaced, with supporters of Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa asserting that the resolution pointed to his elevation to the role of acting governor.
However, sources within Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s cabinet raised concerned that there is alleged plans to thwart the governor and make Aiyedatiwa the acting governor which is against the agreement with President Tinubu.
Recall that in a statement, Tinubu emphasised maintaining the status quo, affirming Akeredolu as the governor and Aiyedatiwa as deputy governor, and the continuity of the State Executive Council.
Allegations of Power Struggle Intensify
The apprehension in the state escalated as 11 lawmakers aligned with Aiyedatiwa reportedly sought to sway Akeredolu’s supporters. A lawmaker recounted a call from the deputy governor, insisting on being declared acting governor, disregarding the resolutions from the meeting with President Tinubu.
Party Leadership Reaffirms Agreement with Tinubu
The state chairman of the APC, Hon. Ade Adetimehin, asserted that no politician in the state would defy the resolutions made with President Tinubu.
The Speaker of the Assembly, Hon Olamide Oladiji, echoed alignment with the meeting’s outcomes, emphasizing the importance of reviewing the issued statement.
Lawmakers and OPN Dismiss Acting Governor Speculations
The Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Emmanuel Ogunmolasuyi, dispelled any plans to welcome the deputy governor with fanfare or proclaim him as acting governor.
Meanwhile, the Ondo Progressives Network (OPN) expressed concern over alleged plots by Aiyedatiwa and lawmakers to declare him acting governor, warning against defiance of the resolutions made in Abuja.
In a statement, the OPN urged the deputy governor to prioritize the interests of the state, avoid insubordination, and uphold the principles established during the Abuja meeting.
The group emphasized the need for peace and adherence to the agreement while calling for an end to political turbulence in Ondo State.