President Bola Tinubu took a decisive step towards restoring political stability in Ondo State on Friday by mediating the protracted dispute between the factions loyal to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The prolonged negotiations involved the President, the Deputy Governor, representatives of Governor Akeredolu, federal and state lawmakers from the state, officials of the state’s chapter of the All Progressives Congress, and other stakeholders from Ondo at the State House, Abuja. This extensive dialogue culminated in a unanimous commitment to embrace peace and set aside their differences.
The resolution guarantees Governor Akeredolu’s continued leadership, the retention of Aiyedatiwa as Deputy Governor, and the unhindered functionality of the State’s House of Assembly and the APC Chapter in Ondo State.
Expressing his commitment to unity and a fresh start, Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa affirmed, “I embrace every one of you. I put behind all that has happened before now. I’ve let go and also let God, just as the President has advised us.”
Furthermore, Aiyedatiwa urged the members of the State Executive Council to join forces with the Governor and himself in delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Ondo State.
The Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Oladiji Olamide, read the details of the resolution, emphasizing the commitment to peace and the preservation of the existing leadership structures in the state.
In acknowledgement of the President’s intervention, the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, expressed gratitude and pledged a united front under the APC.
Additionally, the Ondo State APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, lauded the outcome of the deliberations, affirming that the party will vigilantly ensure adherence to the new commitments.
In conclusion, with the rift resolved and a renewed sense of unity, the stage is set for progress and unity, as echoed by Adetimehin: “Today is my happiest moment. And I know sanity has come to Ondo State. So, on behalf of the teeming supporters of our party in the state, we appreciate our leader, Mr. President.”
