President Bola Tinubu has intervened to settle the protracted political conflict in Ondo State, issuing a directive during a weekend meeting to maintain the existing leadership structure. As a result, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu will retain his position, and Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa will continue in his role, despite previous opposition from Akeredolu’s supporters.
President Tinubu’s decision stipulates that Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa’s retention is contingent on his commitment to ensuring peace in the state. Aiyedatiwa is expected to sign a pledge of good behavior, and the President has reportedly appointed three individuals to oversee his actions and report back.
The resolution emerged from a lengthy, private meeting held by President Tinubu with the involved parties at Aso Rock Villa, spanning over six hours. Sources revealed that the President emphasized maintaining the current state of affairs and expressed disapproval of moves to declare Aiyedatiwa as acting governor.
A source disclosed, “President Tinubu directed that the deputy governor should go and resume work as deputy governor and not as acting governor. He also directed that the State Executive Council should remain intact; ditto for the party exco, contrary to threats.”
The President further instructed Aiyedatiwa to submit a letter of undertaking, committing to maintaining peace in the state. Additionally, President Tinubu appointed the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Princess Oladunni, Party Chairman Adetimehin, and the Speaker of the House, Oladiji, to monitor and report any deviations from the resolution.
