Akeredolu Transmits Power To Deputy, Set To Embark On Medical Leave

Akure, Ondo State – Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, is set to begin his medical leave on December 13th, as part of the ongoing follow-up to his medical treatment.

According to a statement from his spokesperson, Richard Olatunde, on Tuesday, December 12, it was disclosed that during Governor Akeredolu’s absence, Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa will step in to assume the responsibilities of the governor in an acting capacity.

Olatunde said the governor would “prioritise 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.

“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,” the statement partly read,

Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) secured his re-election as the state governor in October 2020. He took the oath of office for his second term in February 2021.

However, the governor’s second term has been marked by health challenges. In June, he was flown abroad for treatment, and despite his return to Nigeria in September after an extended period overseas, he continued his recovery in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.

The 67-year-old politician has faced mounting pressure from opposition parties and activists, urging him to either resign or delegate power to his deputy by the provisions of the 1999 constitution.

The governor’s supporters in the state House of Assembly have conflicted with Aiyedatiwa, leading to the intervention of President Bola Tinubu.