Following intense pressure by civil society organisations and the Monday night intervention by President Bola Tinubu, Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has announced that he would commence his medical leave on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, as a follow-up to his medical treatment.
At Monday’s meeting, President had directed the ailing Akeredolu to immediately transfer power to his deputy.
The emergency meeting was the second one summoned by the President to resolve the leadership crisis in the state following the governor’s absence from office since July 2023.
It was first agreed that the State House of Assembly should invoke the doctrine of necessity to make Aiyedatiwa the acting governor, but some of those present pleaded with President Tinubu that it would humiliate the governor.
Akeredolu, in a statement issued Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, said during his medical leave, Akeredolu would prioritise his health and ensure a full recovery before resuming his official duties.
He said: “A formal letter regarding the medical leave and a notice formally transferring power in line with the Nigerian Constitution will be transmitted to the House of Assembly.
“In the absence of Governor Akeredolu, the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, will assume the responsibilities of the Governor in acting capacity.”
Akeredolu expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support and affection of the people of Ondo State.
He assured them that his administration remains committed to the path of progress and prosperity for the people.
TheHintsNews reports that the governor has not been to the state capital since he returned to Nigeria in September from a three-month medical leave in Germany.
Sources close to the governor revealed that he had been in a vegetative state since he returned to Nigeria and could hardly muster a word.