Mere days into his tenure as Ondo State's new governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa finds himself navigating the intricate task of appointing a deputy governor. This development follows closely on the heels of his inauguration, succeeding Rotimi Akeredolu, whose passing marked the beginning of Aiyedatiwa's unexpected ascent to power. Reports are abuzz with speculation as Aiyedatiwa, under mounting pressure, weighs his options for a deputy to aid in steering the state's affairs.
A notable Yoruba leader has confirmed President Bola Tinubu's keen interest in the political dynamics of Ondo State. Amidst the political unrest and discord that clouded Aiyedatiwa's rise to governorship, choosing a deputy becomes an ever more complex equation. Whispered rumors suggest Aiyedatiwa might turn to his existing cabinet for a deputy, eyeing those who stood by him during the tumultuous times that nearly capsized his political journey.
The Daily Trust reports an exploration of diverse possibilities by the governor, deliberating between candidates from Ondo Central and Ondo North Senatorial Districts, the latter being the late Akeredolu's stronghold. As Aiyedatiwa embarks on early consultations with political stakeholders and strategists both within and outside the state, he treads carefully, aligning his choice with his ambitions for the 2024 governorship race.
Hailing from Ilaje in the Ondo South Senatorial District, Aiyedatiwa once nurtured dreams for the governor's seat at Alagbaka, dreams that soured amidst a political crisis leading to impeachment proceedings against him. Allegations of disloyalty, financial mismanagement, and damaging media publications were brought against him, culminating in 14 charges of gross misconduct by the State Assembly under Speaker Olamide Oladiji.
As for potential deputy governor candidates, the State Executive Council's Mr. Rasaq Obe, Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources, and Mr. Olugbenga Ale, Chief of Staff to the late Governor Akeredolu, emerge as front runners. Obe, known for his loyalty to Aiyedatiwa, revealed forgery within the cabinet, while Ale, hailing from Owo, faced disloyalty charges after his illness led to delays in government proceedings. Advocates for Ale argue that his appointment would honor Akeredolu's legacy and restore balance in the state's political landscape.
However, President Tinubu's intervention has shaken up the deputy governor selection process. A source inside the government revealed to Daily Trust that Tinubu, having actively engaged in the state's political affairs, summoned Aiyedatiwa to a private meeting in Lagos. In this meeting, they discussed the deputy governor's selection in depth. Despite reservations about some of Aiyedatiwa's post-Akeredolu decisions, Tinubu stressed the importance of a choice that wouldn't ignite further political turmoil in Ondo State.
While the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership considers Ifedayo Abegunde, current Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), for the deputy governor role, Tinubu's preferences might lead the decision in another direction. Abegunde, an Akure native and former Secretary to the State Government during Akeredolu's first term, had a falling out with the late governor. The party, led by National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, seems poised to navigate these waters for Abegunde's acceptance, though the final decision rests with Tinubu and the presidency.
Amidst these swirling political undercurrents, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who officially assumed the role of governor on December 27, seeks a deputy who can be a pillar of support in his governance of the resource-rich state. His choice, expected to be announced early next year, will mark a significant step in his administration, shaping the future of Ondo State.
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