Opposition Demands Immediate Power Transfer in Ondo State: Ultimatum Issued to Governor Akeredolu
AKURE/Nigeria: In a dramatic turn of events, several opposition party leaders and affiliated groups within the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) have issued a stern ultimatum to Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State. The demand: transfer executive power to his deputy, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, within a strict 72-hour window, or face severe consequences.
Under the banner of the PDP Forever Initiative, these groups threatened to occupy the Governor’s office should Akeredolu fail to comply with the ultimatum.
During a press conference held at the PDP national secretariat, Hon. Obande Gideon Obande, the National Coordinator of these groups, expressed grave concerns over the constitutional void resulting from President Bola Tinubu and the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) failing to address the ongoing issue.
The crux of their agitation lies in the perceived leadership vacuum created by Akeredolu’s absence from office. The groups adamantly demand that the Governor’s deputy should be fully empowered to oversee the governance of the state.
“While our prayers are directed towards Akeredolu’s swift recovery acknowledging his human vulnerability, his incapacity must not impede governance. The law provides for the deputy to act in his stead,” emphasized the PDP Forever Initiative.
The ultimatum issued by the group is crystal clear: “We hereby call on Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to resume within 72 hours or hand over power to his Deputy for the effective management of Ondo State.”
Continuing their stance, the groups criticized the APC’s leadership for failing to provide the expected guidance for Nigerians. They lamented the political void in Ondo State, accusing the APC of displaying incompetence in governance.
The PDP Forever Initiative expressed dissatisfaction, citing precedents during their tenure in power when they swiftly addressed similar crises involving sick governors. They underscored the APC’s alleged insensitivity towards Nigerians, emphasizing that the nation’s welfare should supersede personal or party interests.
The groups firmly reiterated their intention to safeguard the public interest, stressing that the country belongs to all citizens, irrespective of political affiliations.
Hon. Obande Gideon emphasized that the demand transcends party lines, asserting that the issue at hand concerns the populace. “His absence hinders state affairs. As the constitution dictates, he should transfer power to the Deputy Governor until he is fit to resume office,” he stated, dismissing any doubts regarding Akeredolu’s competence but highlighting concerns about his constitutional capacity to continue leading the state.
