Political Crisis Unfolds in Ondo State House of Assembly 11 of 26 Members Switched Allegiance

The Ondo State House of Assembly finds itself in the throes of a divisive political standoff, escalating the already simmering tensions between Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Deputy Governor Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Out of the 26 lawmakers, reports indicate that 11 have switched allegiance to the embattled deputy governor, precipitating a call for Aiyedatiwa’s installment as the acting governor.

Sources intimate that this move has been prompted by external influences, hinting at efforts from forces in Abuja to sway the legislators. The scheduled plenary session intended to declare Aiyedatiwa as the acting governor was allegedly halted due to an unexpected invitation for a meeting with President Bola Tinubu.

House Divided: Plans for Aiyedatiwa’s Ascension

Rt Hon. Oladiji, the Speaker, confirmed the meeting with President Tinubu and emphasized that the outcome would dictate their subsequent actions. Contrary to assumptions, the session aimed to endorse Aiyedatiwa as acting governor rather than declaring Governor Akeredolu as incapacitated. The impending plenary session appears to have the backing of the national party leadership.

However, amidst the controversy, there’s a faction within the assembly opposed to Aiyedatiwa’s elevation. The Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Mr. Olatunji Oshati, confirmed the scheduled meeting but remained elusive about Aiyedatiwa’s potential declaration.

Leadership Void: Presidential Intervention Amid Impeachment Proceedings

President Bola Tinubu‘s intervention in the escalating feud between Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa manifests in the invitation extended to key assembly members and state party leaders for a crucial meeting in Abuja. This intervention comes on the heels of the state assembly’s attempt to impeach the deputy governor on grounds of alleged gross misconduct, a move contested by Aiyedatiwa in court.

Governor Akeredolu’s prolonged absence following his return from medical leave exacerbates the state’s tension. Aiyedatiwa’s supporters threatened protests if the governor failed to resume duties, urging for the deputy governor’s interim appointment in Akeredolu’s absence.

Prominent Ondo State Indigene Advocating for Governor Akeredolu’s Resignation

Many prominent voices in Nigeria are urging Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to resign and allow the state to function smoothly, asserting that it is currently being held hostage. Among those calling for his resignation is Sowore Omoyele @YeleSowore, a notable figure Ondo State Indigene, who, in a widely circulated tweet, stated, “The incapacitated Gov. @RotimiAkeredolu of Ondo State must resign NOW!“

The political deadlock that has characterized Ondo State in recent months could have been avoided if Governor Akeredolu had made the right decision to step down due to his ailing health, which effectively hindered his ability to serve the people. By clinging to power despite the constraints of his health, the governor has exacerbated the divide between core professionals in governance and career politicians, often criticized for tarnishing the dignity of public office and the rule of law.

While it is understandable for leaders to face health challenges and temporary incapacitation, personal issues should not bring governance to a standstill or give the impression of a government on hiatus. The current situation in Ondo State is viewed as a disservice to Governor Akeredolu’s reputation and contradicts the call for core professionals to actively engage in the political sphere.

Calls for Presidential Intervention Amidst Crisis

Notable stakeholders, including the Pan Yoruba Socio-Political Group Afenifere and traditional leaders, have beseeched President Tinubu to intervene urgently. Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the leader of Afenifere, penned a letter appealing for prompt presidential intervention to avert an impending constitutional crisis in the state.

The political crisis gripping the Ondo State House of Assembly has not only deepened the divide among lawmakers but has also raised concerns about the state’s governance amidst the absence of its elected leaders.

This comprehensive report encapsulates the intricate web of political maneuvering, external influences, and the significant implications of the escalating crisis in Ondo State, highlighting the urgency for decisive action to restore stability and avert a constitutional debacle.