Concern regarding Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s tardiness in taking office upon his return from overseas medical leave has been voiced by a coalition of Civil Society Organisations for Democracy (CCSOD).
However, the coalition requested that the governor of Ondo State either resume or promptly give his deputy more authority.
The coalition’s chief convener, Dr Tunji Asaolu, urged Governor Akeredolu to give the needs of the people top priority, to take up his duties right now, and to hand over power to his deputy, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, during a news conference on Thursday in Abuja.
The human rights organisation emphasised that Ondo State must act quickly to address the issue and stated that it cannot afford to be without strong leadership.
The attempts by political jobbers to create a rift between the governor and his deputy were also denounced, as were any attempts to take advantage of the ensuing power vacuum for private benefit.
The governor’s extended absence, according to Asaolu, “raises serious concerns about the functionality of governance, effective decision-making, and administrative efficiency in our beloved state,” the statement added.
The purpose of sections 189, 190, and 191 of our Constitution is to prevent any form of vacancy. Furthermore, the need to prevent a leadership void is expressly emphasised in these parts. A lengthy governor’s absence results in a governance vacuum that hinders Ondo State’s ability to be administered effectively.
It is also concerning that certain individuals who were not chosen by the good people of Ondo State appear to be interfering politically and obstructing the Deputy Governor from carrying out his constitutional obligations to the fullest extent possible while Governor Akeredolu is away. Instead of a cabal or persons that make up a “cabal,” the public know their governor and his deputy.
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The deputy governor is authorised by the constitution to operate in the governor’s absence, as we would like to remind all parties involved. This is not possible because of political gamesmanship that go against the fundamental values of our democracy. Particularly during difficult times, Ondo State demands strong and steadfast leadership.
Therefore, in compliance with the requirements of the Constitution, we hereby call on all pertinent authorities to take immediate action to resolve this issue and guarantee the smooth transfer of power to the Ondo Deputy Governor.
“We will not remain silent while political manoeuvres endanger the welfare of this honourable and highly esteemed state. The people of Ondo State deserve transparent and accountable leadership.”
The coalition claims that even after returning from medical treatment abroad, the governor has not resumed his duties within the state for a number of weeks.
Let it be known that, along with a great number of other devout Nigerians, we are fervently pleading with God to grant Governor Akeredolu forgiveness and to fully restore his excellent health.
“But we believe that the Governor’s extended absence presents significant questions regarding our beloved state’s ability to effectively govern, make decisions, and run its administration.”
