Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has finally transmitted his letter of ‘medical leave’ to the members of the State House of Assembly.
Olamide Oladiji, Speaker of the House of Assembly, who confirmed the letter during plenary on Wednesday, said the governor’s letter had empowered the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to take over power in “acting capacity.”
Oladiji said Akeredolu’s action was in line with Section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“According to the letter, his Deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa would now assume the responsibilities of the Governor in an acting capacity until there is a written declaration to the contrary,” the Speaker said at the plenary session.
The Speaker, who expressed appreciation to God for the speedy recovery of the ailing governor, expressed optimism that he would soon resume his duty after getting healed.
The letter is coming barely 24 hours after the governor announced he was proceeding on a fresh medical leave outside the state.
Ailing Akeredolu, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, said he would transfer the letter regarding his medical leave and a notice formally transferring power to Aiyedatiwa to the Assembly.
The latest developments came after the long absence of Governor Akeredolu generated reactions amid the intervention of President Bola Tinubu who summoned all the political actors in the state to a meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Meanwhile, Aiyedatiwa has resumed work as the acting governor following the announcement of the assembly confirming the recipient of the governor’s letter.
One of the aides of the acting governor, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, told press that Mr Aiyedatiwa would soon make a state wide broadcast to the people.
“He is going to address the people of the state soon in a broadcast. The reason for the delay was because the letter declaring him in acting capacity was read today (Wednesday) at the plenary. So, expect to hear from him soon,” he said.
