Breaking News: Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to Return to Germany for Extended Medical Treatment

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Breaking News: Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to Return to Germany for Extended Medical Treatment

In a recent announcement, it has been revealed that the ailing Ondo State Governor, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu, is set to return to Germany for further medical treatment. The news comes amid concerns about the governor's health and the potential impact on the state's leadership.

A statement released by Mr. Richard Olatunde, the governor's Chief Press Secretary, on Tuesday, outlined the details of Akeredolu's impending medical leave. The governor, who has been battling an undisclosed ailment, will transmit a formal letter to the state House of Assembly, temporarily handing over power to his deputy, Lucy Aiyedatiwa, who will assume the role of acting governor during his absence.

This decision follows a pattern set during the governor's previous medical vacation from April to July, during which he entrusted his deputy with the responsibilities of acting governor. Despite his return to the country in September, Akeredolu's prolonged absence had raised concerns, leading to internal divisions within the executive council.

The governor's extended stay in Germany during his last medical leave prompted a leadership vacuum, creating divisions within the state government. Notably, the governor was not sighted in Ondo State upon his return, reportedly staying in his private residence in Ibadan. The situation led to a reported split within the executive council, with factions loyal to both the governor and the deputy governor, Lucy Aiyedatiwa.

The internal strife reached a critical point in November when President Bola Tinubu engaged with state All Progressive Congress leaders and the Speaker of the state Assembly. Despite agreements to terminate impeachment proceedings and withdraw court cases, these resolutions were not implemented, prolonging the leadership crisis.

The latest development comes after a recent meeting between Tinubu and the state APC leaders with the deputy governor on Monday night. Akeredolu's Chief Press Secretary, Olatunde, confirmed the governor's decision to return to Germany for medical treatment on Wednesday.

In light of Akeredolu's prolonged medical leave, the state House of Assembly is expected to receive a formal letter officially transferring power. However, as of the time of reporting, the Assembly had yet to receive the governor's letter, prompting discussions on alternative approaches, including the Doctrine of Necessity.

Concerns have also been raised about the alleged forgery of Governor Akeredolu's signature, prompting calls for an investigation. The Ondo State Conscience Movement released a statement urging Acting Governor Aiyedatiwa to initiate a thorough investigation into the alleged forgeries. The group emphasized the potential consequences, including the misuse of funds and damage to the state's reputation.

As the situation unfolds, the people of Ondo State anxiously await further developments in the leadership dynamics and the resolution of the challenges facing the state government.