In a bid to quell the political turmoil that has gripped Ondo State in recent months, Deputy Governor Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa extended a heartfelt apology to the State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, at a press briefing held in Akure today.
The apology comes in the wake of mounting tension and controversy stemming from Aiyedatiwa’s prolonged absence from the state.
Addressing the media, Aiyedatiwa expressed deep remorse for the embarrassment and discomfort Governor Akeredolu endured as a result of the spate of negative headlines that have engulfed the state in recent months.
He reiterated his unwavering loyalty to the Governor and his commitment to the overall development of the Sunshine State. Aiyedatiwa stressed the urgent need to restore peace and tranquility in the region.
“I am profoundly grateful to Mr. Governor for his intervention and role in persuading the distinguished members of the Ondo State House of Assembly to embrace the political solution offered by our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the face of an impeachment move against me,” Aiyedatiwa declared.
“Our beloved state has witnessed a series of events triggered by the health challenges faced by Mr. Governor, which gave rise to misunderstandings, misconceptions, assumptions, and insinuations, and exploited by political contenders preparing for the upcoming 2024 gubernatorial election.
“The recent impeachment attempt by the House of Assembly and the ensuing reactions have further created division and chaos, with my loyalty to Mr. Governor being questioned.
“It is in reference to the above that I hereby tender my unreserved apologies to Mr. Governor and the good people of Ondo state, and I assure that, together, we will both complete this journey with honor, divine guidance and in good health by the grace of God.”
The Deputy Governor also categorically denied all allegations levied against him by those intent on removing him from office ahead of the next election. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining decorum in the face of baseless accusations.
“We have continued to read all sorts of lies against my person in the media. None of it is true. There has never been any issue between Mr. Governor and myself and I have never undermined Mr. Governor. This is a fabricated crisis just for the purpose of election.
“I remain fully committed to the principles of good governance that Mr. Governor has established, and I pledge my unwavering loyalty to him and I will continue to submit myself under his able, courageous and selfless leadership”, Aiyedatiwa said.
In addition, Aiyedatiwa distanced himself from groups and individuals that have been protesting and calling for Governor Akeredolu’s resignation, emphasizing that he had not commissioned any individual or group to engage in such campaigns.
The Deputy Governor expressed his gratitude to the national leadership of the APC for their intervention in the impeachment move against him and pledged his full support for reconciliation efforts aimed at restoring peace in the State.
“I have a lot of respect for the Speaker and members of the House of Assembly and members of the State Executive Council, and I do not hold any grudge. I want to appeal to all the political actors in the State to allow peace so we can all concentrate on the development of our dear State,” Aiyedatiwa concluded.
The Deputy Governor’s public apology and commitment to reconciliation mark a significant step towards resolving the political crisis that has gripped Ondo State, raising hopes of a return to political stability and focus on the development of the state
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