Akeredolu commences medical leave, Sowore insists on his resignation

Ailing Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN will on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 commence on a medical leave to take care of his health.

This is contained in a letter he send to the Speaker,  Ondo State House of Assembly. While away, his deputy, Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa will act as governor.

However, Omoyele Sowore, a political activist has objected to the letter, saying the constitutional thing for the ailing governor to do is to resign and allow Ayedatiwa to be sworn in as governor. He therefore vowed that the planned protest to force Akeredolu out of office will go on across every town in Ondo State on Saturday December 16, 2023.

Akredolu’s press statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Richard Olatunde reads:

“Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, will commence his medical leave on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, as a follow-up to his medical treatment;

During his medical leave, Governor Akeredolu will prioritize his health and ensure a full recovery before resuming his official duties;

A formal letter regarding the medical leave and a notice formally transferring power in line with the Nigerian Constitution will be transmitted to the House of Assembly;

In the absence of Governor Akeredolu, the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, will assume the responsibilities of the Governor in acting capacity;

Governor Akeredolu expresses his gratitude for the unwavering support and affection of the people of Ondo State. He assures them that his administration remains committed to the path of progress and prosperity for the people;

As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a widely respected Nigerian, Governor Akeredolu has consistently delegated power to his deputy during his annual vacations. This practice was observed on April 1, 2021, April 1, 2022, April 3, 2023, and July 10, 2023, when he embarked on previous vacations”. 

However, Sowore in a statement on his twitter handle rejected the governor’s medical leave, insisting on his resignation. “The information circulating that @officialABAT is asking for ailing Ondo State Gov. Akeredolu to transmit another forged letter to “hand over power” to his deputy is both illegal and unacceptable. The State House of Assembly must act in accordance with the legal procedures established by law. That @RotimiAkeredolu is so incapacitated that he can’t sign a simple letter is enough reason to kick him out of office. That’s exactly what will happen starting from Saturday #AkeredoluMustResign A mass rally is to hold across the state from Saturday, this will happen in all cities and towns across Ondo state, no longer in Akure alone* TAKE NOTE!