- PDP Forever Initiative issues a 72-hour ultimatum to Ondo Governor Akeredolu to transfer power to his deputy or face office occupation
- The group highlights constitutional concerns, urges the deputy’s full authorization, criticizes APC’s response, and emphasizes citizens’ interests beyond party lines
In a decisive move, opposition party leaders and support groups from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) issued a 72-hour ultimatum to Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State on Friday. The demand: to transfer power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, or face an office occupation.
Operating under the banner of PDP Forever Initiative, the groups, led by National Coordinator Hon. Obande Gideon Obande, voiced concern over the unresolved constitutional issue in Ondo State. They highlighted the absence of intervention by President Bola Tinubu and the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Expressing distress over the leadership vacuum created by Akeredolu’s absence, the PDP Forever Initiative insisted that the deputy should be fully authorized to govern the state. While wishing Akeredolu a swift recovery, the groups emphasized that his incapacity should not hinder governance, citing the legal provision for a deputy to act in his absence.
“We call on Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to resume within 72 hours or hand over power to his Deputy for effective management of Ondo State,” declared the PDP Forever Initiative. They warned of occupying the Ondo State Government House if the governor failed to comply with the ultimatum.
Critiquing the APC’s response to the crisis, the groups lamented the absence of effective leadership. They drew parallels with past instances, citing the PDP’s handling of similar situations during their tenure.
“The APC-led Federal government’s insensitivity to the plight of Nigerians is evident in its failure to address the political crisis in Ondo State,” the groups asserted. They questioned the delay in involving the State Assembly to facilitate a harmonious working relationship between the Deputy Governor and the ailing Governor’s family.
Highlighting the perceived neglect of constitutional duties, the PDP Forever Initiative emphasized that the country belongs to all citizens, irrespective of party affiliations. They criticized the undue influence of non-state actors, particularly close associates of the governor, alleging a conflict of interest.
The National Coordinator, Hon. Obande Gideon, clarified that the demand transcended party lines, emphasizing its significance for the people who voted for the governor. He underscored the constitutional requirement for power transmission to the Deputy Governor during the Governor’s incapacity.
“We are not questioning his performance, but we are concerned about his health. He is not constitutionally fit to continue in office,” stated Hon. Obande Gideon, reinforcing the group’s commitment to advocating for good governance.