The Pro-Citizens Coalition, a group deeply concerned about the prolonged absence of Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has voiced apprehension regarding the ramifications of this absence on both the state’s affairs and its representation at critical national events.
The Chairman of the group, Olalekan Adubiaro, emphasized that Akeredolu’s unavailability within the state has resulted in his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who is currently facing an impeachment battle, being unable to adequately represent the governor at significant gatherings. These include crucial national forums such as the National Security Council and the National Economic Council.
Adubiaro went further to allege that certain individuals within Akeredolu’s cabinet have exploited the governor’s health situation and unavailability to deliberately sideline Aiyedatiwa from participating in the state’s governance.
He urged relevant authorities to address this matter with urgency, as it poses a substantial threat to effective governance and the overall well-being of Ondo State.
As Adubiaro expressed, “The continuous absence of our governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN CON, and the conspicuous absence of our state or its representative from strategic engagements with other state governments under the Tinubu administration are a source of increasing concern for the people of Ondo State.”
Olalekan Adubiaro pointed out a recent meeting of the Nigeria Police Council, presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where governors or their representatives were in attendance, but Ondo State was noticeably absent.
“The Governor of the State, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has been unwell and unable to attend official meetings. He has yet to return to Ondo State since his arrival in the country from overseas on September 7, 2023,” he noted.