In a recent development, the Ondo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Caucus in the House of Representatives has penned an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, expressing concerns about Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s perceived lack of respect for his late predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who is yet to be buried.
Following the demise of Governor Akeredolu on December 27, 2023, Aiyedatiwa, the former deputy governor, assumed office as the new governor of Ondo State. The open letter, signed by six federal lawmakers, including Hon. Adesida Abiodun Cornelius and Hon. Timehin Adelegbe, outlines their apprehensions regarding Aiyedatiwa’s alleged actions and decisions since taking office.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Hon. Adesida, the leader of the caucus, urged President Tinubu to intervene, expressing concerns that Aiyedatiwa’s actions may jeopardize APC’s chances in the upcoming 2024 governorship election in the state. The lawmakers accuse the governor of making decisions that indicate animosity towards Akeredolu and a lack of commitment to the party’s growth in the state.
The letter highlights Aiyedatiwa’s associations with political adversaries of the late Akeredolu and his alleged alignment with the opposition party. The lawmakers express dismay over the appointment of individuals with a history of opposing Akeredolu to key positions in Aiyedatiwa’s administration.
Furthermore, the lawmakers criticize Aiyedatiwa for allegedly taking credit for the achievements of the deceased governor and erasing his legacy. They point to the dissolution of local government structures and the marginalization of the party’s state Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, as divisive actions that have caused discord within the party.
The letter concludes with a plea to President Tinubu for decisive and unifying leadership to prevent internal conflicts from jeopardizing the APC’s influence in Ondo State. The lawmakers express hope that the state will be saved from further turmoil, emphasizing the need for development, peace, prosperity, and renewed hope under Tinubu’s presidency.