In a decisive move aimed at restoring political stability in Ondo State, President Bola Tinubu intervened late on Friday to address the protracted crisis between factions aligned with the Executive Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, and Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Extensive negotiations, involving President Tinubu, Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa, representatives of Governor Akeredolu, federal and state lawmakers from Ondo, officials of the state’s chapter of the All Progressives’ Congress (APC), and various stakeholders, took place at the State House in Abuja.
President Tinubu, urging reconciliation and peace, garnered commitments from all parties involved. As a result, the prevailing status quo will be maintained, with Governor Akeredolu retaining his position as Chief Executive of the State, Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa maintaining his role, and members of the State Executive Council continuing their respective duties. The leadership of the State’s House of Assembly and the APC Chapter in Ondo State will also remain unchanged.
Expressing his commitment to unity and cooperation, Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa stated, “I embrace every one of you. I put behind all that has happened before now. I’ve let go and also let God, just as the President has advised us.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the executive and legislative branches to ensure effective governance.
Aiyedatiwa urged members of the State Executive Council to rally around the Governor and himself to deliver the “dividend of democracy” to the people of Ondo State, emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation.
Rt. Hon. Oladiji Olamide, the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, outlined the resolution, emphasizing a commitment to peace, the preservation of the cabinet, and maintaining the status quo in both the House of Assembly and the party leadership.
Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his intervention, pledging unity and loyalty to the APC. Ondo State APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, praised the resolution, assuring that the party would monitor the adherence to the newly established commitments.
Chief Ajuri Ngelal, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, confirmed the successful resolution of the crisis and highlighted the president’s role in bringing about a united front within the party. Adetimehin noted the significance of the resolution in securing the stability of Ondo State and acknowledged President Tinubu’s leadership in resolving the longstanding issues.
