The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has urged Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to delegate executive responsibilities to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, citing concerns over the economic stalemate created by the governor’s lengthy absence due to illness.
Fatai Adams, the PDP’s state chairman, highlighted the party’s displeasure with the current scenario, claiming that the absence of Governor Akeredolu had resulted in economic standstill in the state.
Adams emphasized the need of seamless government and urged the governor to relinquish authority to his deputy.
In an address to the press in Akure, Adams raised concern about certain forces within the administration exploiting the governance vacuum.
He expressed concern over the lack of clear leadership in government business, emphasizing that the state urgently requires competent leadership to handle present issues.
“We are, however, deeply concerned about the ruinous cost the health challenge of the governor has bestowed upon the state; the most obvious is the emergence of a cabal, largely informal, that has seized every initiative, mindlessly driving our state to penury,” remarked Adams.
Adams asserted that the state’s finances are being compromised, with resources being exploited by various interest groups both within and outside the government, adversely impacting development and overall well-being.
Reiterating the party’s call for the transmission of power to the deputy governor, Adams reminded Governor Akeredolu of his advice to the late President Umaru Yar’Adua during his illness.
He urged the governor to prioritise his health and adhere to his previous counsel to the late president by temporarily relinquishing power to his deputy.
“It is now crystal clear that Akeredolu’s doctors have since instructed him to stay away from his office and state; this certainly highlights the fact that he is currently not fit to handle state matters.
“We urge Mr Governor to please use his advice to the late President Yar’Adua and transmit power to the deputy governor in the interest of our dear state,” Adams said.
Governor Akeredolu has been away from the state, residing at his private residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, since returning from a medical vacation in Germany in September.