The Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday extended a heartfelt apology to Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, over the political unrest that has rocked the state due to his prolonged absence.
Addressing journalists at his office in Akure, Aiyedatiwa expressed deep regret for the discomfort and negative publicity that the Governor has endured in recent months. Emphasizing his unwavering loyalty to the Governor and the state’s progress, the Deputy Governor underscored the imperative of calming tensions to restore harmony and stability to the Sunshine State.
He said:
“I am profoundly grateful to Mr. Governor for his intervention and role in persuading the distinguished members of the Ondo State House of Assembly to embrace the political solution offered by our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the face of an impeachment move against me.
“Our beloved state has witnessed a series of events triggered by the health challenges faced by Mr. Governor, which gave rise to misunderstandings, misconceptions, assumptions, and insinuations, and exploited by political contenders preparing for the upcoming 2024 gubernatorial election.
“The recent impeachment attempt by the House of Assembly and the ensuing reactions have further created division and chaos, with my loyalty to Mr. Governor being questioned.
“It is in reference to the above that I hereby tender my unreserved apologies to Mr. Governor and the good people of Ondo state, and I assure that, together, we will both complete this journey with honour, divine guidance and in good health by the grace of God.”
Ondo Impeachment: Aiyedatiwa Denies Alleged Protest Endorsement Against Akeredolu
Refuting vehemently all the allegations circulating against him, Aiyedatiwa maintained his stance on maintaining a dignified stance in the face of unwarranted accusations aimed at removing him from his position in the upcoming election.
“We have continued to read all sorts of lies against my person in the media. None of it is true. There has never been any issue between Mr. Governor and myself and I have never undermined Mr. Governor. This is a fabricated crisis just for the purpose of election.
“I remain fully committed to the principles of good governance that Mr. Governor has established, and I pledge my unwavering loyalty to him and I will continue to submit myself under his able, courageous and selfless leadership”, Aiyedatiwa said.
He also categorically disassociated himself from any groups or individuals orchestrating protests or calling for Governor Akeredolu’s resignation, affirming that he never sanctioned any such actions.
Acknowledging the supportive role played by the national leadership of the APC in averting the impeachment motion against him, the Deputy Governor expressed gratitude and vowed to actively participate in the ongoing reconciliation efforts designed to foster unity and peace within the State.
“I have a lot of respect for the Speaker and members of the House of Assembly and members of the State Executive Council and I do not hold any grudge. I want to appeal to all the political actors in the State to allow peace so we can all concentrate on the development of our dear State”, he added.
‘Please Forgive Me’ – Shaibu Appeals for Reconciliation with Obaseki
