In the midst of heightened political tension in Ondo State over the past few weeks, the clamor for the resumption or resignation of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has intensified. Akeredolu, who has been governing the state from Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State, since his return from a medical trip to Germany, is facing growing scrutiny over the perceived absence of active governance in the Sunshine State.
The governor left Nigeria on June 13, 2023, for medical treatment and spent approximately three months abroad, returning on September 9. Despite notifying the Ondo State House of Assembly about a 21-day leave and transferring power to his deputy, Akeredolu has yet to set foot in Akure, the state capital, opting to stay in his personal residence in Ibadan.
Accusations have emerged, pointing to the influence of the First Lady, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, in allowing the governor to retain power despite reported ill health. The political turmoil in Ondo State escalated upon Akeredolu’s return, with his loyalists making efforts to oust the deputy governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for actions taken during the governor’s absence.
Aiyedatiwa faces a political battle as the governor’s loyalists seek his removal, listing multiple offenses, including “gross misconduct, abuse of office, financial recklessness, and publication in the media maligning the credibility of the Governor.” Despite the intervention by the National Working Committee of the APC, the deputy governor’s position remains precarious.
The attention has recently shifted to Governor Akeredolu himself, raising concerns about his ability to discharge his duties effectively. Ironically, Akeredolu, who previously advocated for the resignation of ailing leaders, is now the subject of similar calls.
Kennedy Peretei, the National Publicity Secretary of the Ondo State PDP, has called for the impeachment of Governor Akeredolu, alleging a violation of the constitution due to the prolonged absence. However, the State Assembly has consistently defended the governor, dismissing calls for action.
Legal experts suggest that, in the case of health challenges, the first move to remove the governor must come from commissioners, who have the power to declare the governor incapacitated. Notably, 33 out of the 35 State Executive Council members recently passed a vote of confidence in the governor, demonstrating their loyalty.
While politicians in the state seem divided on the appropriate course of action, there are indications that some prefer to wait until the next election in November 2024, with the primary election scheduled for April next year. The ongoing political turmoil raises questions about the future leadership and stability of Ondo State.
