The Ondo State House of Assembly has declared the state deputy governor, Honourable Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as acting governor of the state, following a letter sent to the lawmakers informing them of the departure of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, to Germany for more medical help.
Speaker of the House, Right Honourable Olamide Oladiji, made this disclosure in a statement he personally signed and made available to journalists on Wednesday.
“Following doctor’s advice on the need for medical follow up after recuperating, Ondo State governor, Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, has forwarded the letter on medical leave to the state House of Assembly.
“Receiving the letter on behalf of other lawmakers, the Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, said the governor’s action is in line with Section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“According to the letter, his deputy, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, would now assume the responsibilities of the governor in acting capacity, until there is a written declaration to the contrary.
“The leave is expected to commence on Wednesday, 13th December,” the statement read.
Oladiji, who expressed appreciation to God for the speedy recovery of the governor, expressed optimism that he would soon resume his duties.
Recall that the Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Richard Olatunde, had stated in a statement on Tuesday that the governor, in line with the constitution, had transferred power to Aiyedatiwa.
In the statement, entitled; “Akeredolu Commences Medical Leave,” Olatunde explained that the governor had expressed gratitude to citizens of the state and well-wishers since he had been ill.
“Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, will commence his medical leave on Wednesday, December 13, as a follow-up to his medical treatment. During his medical leave, Governor Akeredolu will prioritise his health and ensure 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. In the absence of Governor Akeredolu, the deputy governor, Honourable Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, will assume the responsibilities of the governor in acting capacity,” Olatunde had said.