Ondo Assembly Approves Indefinite Medical Leave For Gov Akeredolu 

BY SEGUN ADEBAYO – The Ondo State House of Assembly has approved an indefinite extension of the one-month medical leave earlier granted to ailing Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

The latest development arose from a notice of extension despatched to the State Assembly by the governor, who had on Monday, 5th June 2023 informed the lawmakers of his decision to proceed on “medical leave” that was scheduled to end on 6th July 2023.

However, in a sudden twist of events, Speaker of the House, Rt (Hon) Olamide Oladiji, on Monday, 10th July 2023, confirmed the extension of Governor Akeredolu’s leave in a terse statement issued to journalists in Akure, the State capital.

According to Oladiji, the governor’s decision to seek an extended leave period followed his doctor’s advice on the need to take adequate rest after recuperating, adding that the State House of Assembly already received a letter of extension on medical leave.

The Speaker, who further explained that the governor’s action was in line with section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), said by the letter received, the State Deputy Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa would continue as Acting Governor until a written declaration is made to the contrary.

The Speaker, while appreciating God for the Governor’s speedy recovery, expressed optimism that he would soon resume his duty as the State Chief Executive.

Governor Akeredolu’s decision to extend his medical leave makes it the first time he would be seeking an indefinite medical vacation for treatment, even as his continuous absence has heightened political tension in the State ahead of the 2024 governorship poll.

Forefront News gathered from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) insiders that the extended leave period may further cause sharp divisions within government circles as cabinet members continue their political maneuverings and jostlings in the battle to determine who will succeed Governor Akeredolu in Alagbaka Government House come February 24, 2025, when his second tenure finally runs out.

Though the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is yet to release an official timetable for the Ondo state gubernatorial poll slated to hold in October 2024, political gladiators and parties are not leaving anything to chance with behind-the-scenes’ engagements and nocturnal meetings taking centre stage in the Sunshine State.