Some opposition party leaders and support groups affiliated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have issued a 72-hour ultimatum to Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, demanding that he transfers power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, or be forced out of office.
The groups, operating under the banner of PDP Forever Initiative, conveyed the threat to occupy the Governor’s Office if Akeredolu did not comply with the specified time frame.
Speaking at a press conference held at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja, Hon. Obande Gideon Obande, the national coordinator of the groups, expressed concern about the failure of President Bola Tinubu and the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to address the constitutional issue in Ondo State.
Concerned about the leadership vacuum resulting from Akeredolu’s absence, the groups urged that his deputy be fully empowered to manage the state’s affairs.
While expressing wishes for Akeredolu’s speedy recovery, they emphasized that his incapacitation should not hinder governance, given the provision for a deputy empowered by law to act in his stead.
The PDP Forever Initiative stated: “We hereby call on Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to resume within 72 hours or hand over power to his Deputy for the effective management of Ondo State.”
The groups warned: “We make bold to say that if the Governor fails to resume or hand over power to his Deputy within 72 hours, we will have no option than to occupy Ondo State Government House to press home our demand.”
Highlighting the lack of effective leadership by the APC, especially in addressing the political crisis in Ondo State, the PDP Forever Initiative criticized the insensitivity of the APC-led Federal Government to the plight of Nigerians.
They referenced past instances, such as during the tenure of former President Umar Musa Yar’Adua and in Taraba State, where the PDP ensured continuity in leadership during times of incapacitation.
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The groups emphasized their commitment to advocating for good governance and expressed concern about non-state actors exerting influence on Ondo State affairs, potentially exploiting their relationship with the ailing governor.
Hon. Obande Gideon clarified that the demand transcended party lines, focusing on the well-being of the people.
The PDP chief urged adherence to the constitution, emphasizing the need for Akeredolu to transmit power to the deputy governor within the ultimatum until he was fit to resume office.
