Barely 48 hours after the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, declared his intention to contest the gubernatorial seat scheduled for November 2024, a former chief press secretary to the late Rotimi Akeredolu, Richard Olatunde, has affirmed that his successor did not approve of him.
Aiyedatiwa during his declaration informed that it was the intention of late Akeredolu that he should succeed him. The incumbent was sworn-in in December 2023 after the passing away of his boss.
Warning Aiyedatiwa, Olatunde said the relationship between former and incumbent was strained and the governor should desist from using the deceased name for political gains because he was “deeply disappointed” by the “character traits” displayed by Aiyedatiwa during his health challenges.
According to a statement from the former press secretary, the family and supporters of late Akeredolu are also not in support of the governor’s ambition either.
“Despite attending to official matters and meeting people from Akure, the late governor intentionally kept Mr. Aiyedatiwa, who was the deputy governor at the time, away from him in Ibadan,” Olatunde said.
“Our late governor was deeply disappointed and regretful of certain behaviours and character traits displayed by Mr. Aiyedatiwa during his health challenges, which ultimately led to his passing.
“Undoubtedly, our late Governor had high hopes for Mr. Aiyedatiwa. The late Akeredolu never concealed his intentions.
“One thing that discerning minds can clearly see is the turn of events in the latter half of last year.
“Trust was betrayed. Confidence was shattered. And the true colours of desperation overshadowed the good intentions of our late Governor.
“What followed was a tale of disappointment and betrayal. Our late leader, to say the least, was heartbroken before his demise.
“Akeredolu’s ardent followers, including members of his family, do not support Mr. Aiyedatiwa’s aspiration to clinch the ticket of the party.”
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings