Governor Akeredolu Embarks On Another Medical Leave, Transmits Power To His Deputy Aiyedatiwa

Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has embarked on another medical leave as he handed over power to his deputy, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.

VerseNews reports that the spokesman, Richard Olatunde announced this in a statement on Tuesday, December 12, 2023.

The medical leave would begin Wednesday, December 13, as a follow-up to a previous medical treatment.

Olatunde said the governor would prioritise his health and ensure a full recovery before resuming official duties.

He further said a formal letter regarding the medical leave and a notice formally transferring power in line with the Nigerian Constitution would be transmitted to the House of Assembly.

The statement read: “In the absence of Governor Akeredolu, the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, will assume the responsibilities of the Governor in acting capacity.

“Governor Akeredolu expresses his gratitude for the unwavering support and affection of the people of Ondo State. He assures them that his administration remains committed to the path of progress and prosperity for the people.

“As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a widely respected Nigerian, Governor Akeredolu has consistently delegated power to his deputy during his annual vacations. This practice was observed on April 1, 2021, April 1, 2022, April 3, 2023, and July 10, 2023, when he embarked on previous vacations.”

Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), won his re-election as the state governor in October 2020 and was sworn in for a second term in office in February 2021.

However, the governor’s second term, since January 2023, has not been a smooth sail as he had to be flown abroad for treatment over a medical condition in June.

The 67-year-old politician returned to Nigeria in September after months overseas but stayed in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

Akeredolu has been under intense pressure from opposition parties and activists to resign or hand over power to his deputy in line with the 1999 constitution.

Also, the governor’s loyalists in the state House of Assembly have been at loggerheads with Aiyedatiwa attracting President Bola Tinubu’s intervention.