Lawmakers of the Ondo State House of Assembly have extended the medical leave of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu indefinitely.
It could be recalled that News Band reported on June 13, 2023, that Governor Akeredolu had began medical leave, saying that he would resume duties on July 7.
The Speaker of the Assembly, Mr Olamide Oladiji, in a statement issued in Akure, explained that the governor asked for 21-day leave for medical treatment abroad starting from June 7 to July 6.
He explained that the governor had stated in the letter that his deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, would act as acting governor for the period he will be away.
Consequently, Akeredolu was flown abroad for medical treatment after transmitting power to his deputy.
In an update issued on June 29, 2023, a former governorship candidate in the state, Mr. Olusola Oke, said that the Ondo State governor is alive and “rapidly responding” to treatment, amidst rumours that he had died.
Oke said those circulating rumours about the alleged death of Akeredolu are “wicked and ungodly”.
In the latest development, however, the Lawmakers extended Governor Akeredolu’s medical leave indefinitely.
The new extension, according to the Speaker, was based on the doctor’s advice on the need for the Governor to rest after recuperating.
Oladiji said Akeredolu forwarded the letter of extension on medical leave in line with section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
He noted that the Governor, in the letter, said his Deputy, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, would continue to act as Governor until a written declaration to the contrary is made.
The Speaker wished speedy recovery to the Governor and expressed optimism that he would soon resume his duty.
No date was fixed for the resumption of the Governor in the new extension. Read more.
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