By Ken Afor
The Acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has expressed his disapproval of the recent impeachment process that was initiated against him, deeming it as both unnecessary and avoidable.
In a televised speech to the state on Thursday morning, Aiyedatiwa reassured residents that the government has successfully overcome the two-month disruption caused by the political crisis.
He conveyed his appreciation to the people for their unwavering support and commitment to the truth.
He said, “I cannot but especially appreciate the third arm of government, the Judiciary through the honourable chief Judge, for its courage, commitment and dedication to protect democracy and the constitution of the nation.
” It is on record that we all sailed through the unnecessary and avoidable weather together. We won together. We are all one large family. We are one great people with one focus: to make our state greater than it is today.”
“At a personal level, I am confident that our democracy would be further enriched with the hard lessons learnt from this episode. For us in government, this whole experience should open a new place in our hearts; a place where we must appreciate that the trust vested in us as a part of the small privileged percentage of people, must be used for the best welfare of the larger percentage of the people.
“We must rise far above the intrigues and instability of the past and roll up our sleeves in service of the people. We are nothing but trustees of the people with whom we share a common humanity. We must and we will exercise with utmost discretion the privileges conferred on us by the great people of Ondo State.”
The acting governor extended his prayers for the swift recuperation of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, who recently commenced another medical leave to Germany.
Akeredolu, who has been bravely fighting cancer, had previously sought treatment in Germany twice this year. However, it was only during this most recent visit that he transferred power to Aiyedatiwa.
Akeredolu’s arrival back from his latest journey in September was met with controversy. Upon his return, he promptly dismissed all media aides affiliated with the deputy governor’s office, citing “insubordination and disregard to the appropriate authority.”
This action exacerbated the political turmoil in the state, ultimately leading to the initiation of impeachment proceedings against Aiyedatiwa.
President Bola Tinubu stepped in last month, urging both parties to amicably resolve their differences.
Aiyedatiwa assumed duty as acting governor after a letter from Akeredolu was transmitted to the State House of Assembly notifying it of embarking on another medical leave to continue his treatment.
