The All Progressives Congress (APC) has stepped in to mediate in the ongoing impeachment process involving the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa. A recent revelation indicates that a significant portion of the APC Peace Committee is sympathetic to Aiyedatiwa’s cause.
It is worth noting that Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the party, initiated the formation of a reconciliation committee with the aim of resolving the political dispute between Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa. The reconciliation committee played a pivotal role by convening discussions with key figures, including the Chairman of the party in the state, Ade Adetimehin, Aiyedatiwa, and members of the National Assembly. These discussions took place in Abuja.
An insider provided insight into the proceedings of the peace meeting held in Abuja under Ganduje’s leadership. According to the source, the majority of the committee members favored Aiyedatiwa, as they held unresolved grievances against Governor Akeredolu. These grievances primarily stemmed from Governor Akeredolu’s involvement in national matters, particularly his outspoken stance during the former President Muhammadu Buhari administration. Akeredolu’s public positions on issues like Fulani herdsmen and the demand for restructuring led to disagreements among committee members.
The source further explained, “Many of them have been waiting for an opportunity to flex muscles with the governor. They see Akeredolu as a very stubborn person. They didn’t like his public stance on issues like Fulani herdsmen and demand for restructuring.”
The APC committee’s perceived bias in favor of Aiyedatiwa has raised concerns about the fairness of the ongoing impeachment process. Seven out of the eight members of the House of Representatives from the state, as well as the three Senators, have reportedly advised Aiyedatiwa to apologize to Governor Akeredolu. However, the committee has allegedly assured Aiyedatiwa that he will face no consequences even if he refrains from an apology.
The standoff between Governor Akeredolu and Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa continues to be a significant concern in Ondo State’s political landscape. The desire for a political solution is apparent, but it remains to be seen how this impasse will ultimately be resolved.
In the midst of these political developments, Governor Akeredolu has not yet returned to Ondo State. Dr. Doyin Odebowale, the Special Adviser on Special Duty and Strategy to the governor, cited accommodation challenges as the reason behind the delay. He emphasized that the governor required appropriate accommodations to aid his recovery. While the situation remains tense, there is hope that a resolution can be reached through dialogue and compromise. The political landscape in Ondo State is a dynamic one, and a fair and just outcome remains the goal for all parties involved.
Source: [Vanguard]
