Ondo State Governor Akeredolu Seeks Replacement for Deputy Amid Impeachment Move

Akeredolu’s Search for a New Deputy Governor

Amidst an ongoing impeachment move against his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has reportedly initiated the process of finding a new deputy governor.

Sources within the government have indicated that Akeredolu is insistent that the replacement must hail from Ilaje, should Aiyedatiwa be impeached.

Suggested Deputy Candidates

According to insiders, four names have emerged as potential candidates for the position: Gbenga Edema, the former OSOPADEC Chairman; Nimbe Tawose, a party chieftain; Rt Hon. Abayomi Akinruntan, the Deputy Speaker in the state House of Assembly; and Dr. (Mrs.) Wunmi Ilawole, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education.

Akeredolu’s condition for the replacement is that the individual should not harbor any governorship ambitions to prevent distractions.

Akeredolu’s Initial Resistance

Initially, Governor Akeredolu was reportedly opposed to the impeachment of his deputy. He even personally reached out to the state party chairman, Ade Adetimehin, requesting the Speaker of the assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji, to halt the impeachment process.

However, Akeredolu’s stance shifted when he was presented with substantial allegations against his deputy by prominent party figures and aides.

Governor’s Emotional Response

The sources reveal that Aiyedatiwa’s situation has deeply affected Governor Akeredolu. The governor had a strong bond with his deputy, treating him with affection and respect. Even the First Lady regarded Lucky as part of their family.

Despite the challenges and intrigues, Governor Akeredolu initially wanted Lucky to complete his tenure as deputy but was uncomfortable with suppressing allegations against him.

He believed in allowing his deputy to defend himself.

Deputy Governors’ Ambitions

The sources also shed light on the ambitions of the governor’s two deputy governors. They emphasize that both deputies betrayed the trust placed in them and exhibited high levels of ambition.

Aiyedatiwa, in particular, is said to have acted hastily and allowed himself to be influenced, ultimately leading to his impeachment situation.

Conclusion

In summary, the impeachment move against Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has prompted Governor Akeredolu to begin the search for a new deputy.

This decision was influenced by allegations against Aiyedatiwa and the governor’s commitment to transparency.

It marks another episode in Governor Akeredolu’s challenging experiences with his deputy governors.

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