In Ondo state, a heated rift between Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has drawn considerable attention. The friction began when Akeredolu fell seriously ill and took a leave of absence, leaving Aiyedatiwa in charge. During this time, Aiyedatiwa garnered support from certain disloyal members of the cabinet, creating rumors of factions aligning with either Akeredolu or Aiyedatiwa. The situation intensified when Akeredolu returned to work, catching Aiyedatiwa off guard.
Late on Friday, Bola Tinubu intervened in the ongoing crisis, engaging in extensive negotiations involving the President, Aiyedatiwa, Akeredolu’s allies, federal and state lawmakers, APC officials, and other stakeholders in Abuja.
Following the talks, the President urged all parties to reconcile and prioritize peace. According to the President’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, both Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa will retain their respective positions as governor and deputy governor.
Aiyedatiwa, pledging to maintain unity among the factions, stated,
“I embrace every one of you. I put behind all that has happened before now. I’ve let go and also let God, just as the President has advised us.”
Acknowledging the political nature of the rift, Aiyedatiwa added, “Impeachment is part of politics. If you survive it, it is also politics. It has come. I’ve survived it, and every other thing is in the past.”
The Ondo State APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the discussions, assuring that the party will oversee the adherence to the newfound commitments.
Adetimehin expressed gratitude to the President, stating,
“Today is my happiest moment. And I know sanity has come to Ondo State. So, on behalf of the teeming supporters of our party in the state, we appreciate our leader, Mr. President.”
He further noted the dissolution of issues within the party and emphasized their resolve to move forward cohesively.
