ARRANGEMENTS are almost completed to swear in Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Acting Governor of Ondo State, as the state governor following the death of the governor, Rotimi Akeredolu.
Media reports reveal that Aiyedatiwa was in his hometown for the Christmas break when the news of the governor’s death broke, and will soon arrive at the state capital, Akure, to be sworn in as required by the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended).
It was further learnt that the swearing-in has been tentatively fixed for 4pm barring any last-minute change in plan.
The state Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, is expected to preside over the exercise.
Aiyedatiwa was the deputy governor until Wednesday, December 13 when power was formally transferred to him as Akeredolu was proceeding on another medical vacation.
The Ondo State Government has confirmed Akeredolu’s death in a statement on Wednesday, revealing that he died in Germany on Wednesday after battling prostate cancer.
The statement issued by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, reads in part: “With a heavy heart, the Ondo State Government announces the passing of our beloved Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
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“Mr. Governor peacefully departed from this world in the early hours of today, Wednesday, December 27, 2023. This tragedy has left behind a profound void in our hearts.
“Governor Akeredolu answered the eternal call while receiving medical treatment in Germany. He succumbed to complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.”
The commissioner noted that a letter had been sent to President Bola Tinubu to officially inform him of the governor’s death, adding: “The family and the Ondo State Government appreciate Mr. President for his support for Governor Akeredolu during his illness. The family and the state government will release further details regarding the funeral arrangements.
“Governor Akeredolu was an extraordinary leader whose unwavering dedication to the state and its people was both commendable and unparalleled. He not only served as the Governor of Ondo State but also emerged as a prominent advocate for the entire Southwest region and the nation. Governor Akeredolu was a courageous leader and an exemplar of integrity. The weight of this loss is truly unbearable.
“However, we find solace in the knowledge that Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu lived a purposeful life, devoted to the service of God Almighty,” the statement added.
