Ondo State Political Crisis: President Tinubu Resolves Crisis Also Renewed Commitment to Unity and Governance

In a crucial move to quell the escalating leadership crisis in Ondo State, President Bola Tinubu stepped in on Friday, unequivocally declaring Governor Rotimi Akeredolu as the Chief Executive of the state. The prolonged discord between factions loyal to Akeredolu and Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had posed a significant threat to the state’s political stability. The President’s intervention followed extensive negotiations involving key stakeholders, representatives of Governor Akeredolu, federal and state lawmakers, and officials of the state’s chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), held at the State House in Abuja. Ajuri Ngelale, the presidential spokesman, conveyed that the resolution solidifies Akeredolu’s position as Governor, Aiyedatiwa’s role as Deputy Governor, and the continuity of the State Executive Council’s duties.

Commitments to Embrace Peace and Unity In Ondo State

Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa, expressing commitment to upholding unity, emphasized the need to move past political upheavals. Pledging collaboration with the Governor and other stakeholders, he highlighted the importance of inclusivity in decision-making, assuring that governance would be a joint effort between the executive and the legislature. Encouraging cooperation among the Executive Council members, Aiyedatiwa stressed mutual respect and unity to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Ondo State. Speaker Oladiji Olamide echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the resolution to maintain peace and stability, reinforcing the status quo regarding the House of Assembly leadership and party structures.

Unified Commitment to Move Forward

The Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his intervention, promising unity and adherence to the resolutions made. Additionally, the Ondo State APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, hailed the outcome of the deliberations as a moment of joy and expressed the party’s readiness to ensure compliance with the newfound commitments. The resolution signifies a collective resolve to mend internal divisions and focus on governance, with stakeholders rallying behind the leadership to bring progress and unity to the people of Ondo State.

President Tinubu’s decisive intervention marks a significant step towards restoring harmony within the Ondo State government. This move signals a renewed commitment to stability, collaboration, and effective governance, providing a foundation for the state to move forward unitedly. The collective efforts of key stakeholders underscore the importance of political unity in fostering development and progress for the people of Ondo State.

Crisis Erupts as APC Leaders Demand Deputy Governor as Acting Governor

In a seismic turn of events, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State have ignited a political firestorm by urging the State House of Assembly to appoint the Deputy Governor, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as the acting Governor. This push follows the persistent absence of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, causing severe economic stagnation in the state.

The intervention of APC stalwart President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appears pivotal in defusing the crisis, aiming to retain Aiyedatiwa as the Deputy Governor and quash the brewing impeachment plot against him within the State Assembly. Under the umbrella of Progressive Stakeholders, these leaders have voiced a Vote Of No Confidence in the state party leadership, alleging a lack of capability to steer the party amidst various challenges.

According to a communique released by this faction and signed by notable figures including former House of Representatives member Hon. Afe Olowookere and ex-Secretary of APC in the State Hon. Raman Rotimi, the call for Aiyedatiwa’s elevation stems from concerns over the Governor’s prolonged absence, casting a shadow over the state’s economic stability.

Resolutions and Demands for Party Reform

The communique, unveiled on Saturday, highlighted critical resolutions agreed upon after extensive deliberations among APC leaders from the State’s 18 Local Government areas. Among the resolutions, a firm emphasis was placed on entrenching party supremacy to restore respect for party structures, leaders, and elders, a vital step deemed essential for inclusive governance and mutual respect.

Moreover, the group underscored the necessity for an inclusive developmental agenda focusing on socio-economic, industrial, and cultural revival aimed at reinstating the State to its deserved standing. They also stressed the imperative for the party members’ involvement in the selection of candidates for political and party offices, advocating against arbitrary appointments without due process.

Expressing discontent over the neglect and sidelining of elders and party stalwarts, the group underscored the importance of recognizing and honoring these figures within the party structure. Additionally, they vehemently opposed the arbitrary naming of party executives and candidates without adherence to due process, vowing to challenge such practices through political and legal channels.