BY Ebunoluwa Olafusi
Richard Olatunde, chief press secretary to Rotimi Akeredolu, governor of Ondo, says his principal is fulfilling his constitutional duties in the state.
Akeredolu has been working from Ibadan, Oyo capital since he returned to Nigeria after a three-month medical leave in Germany.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state has repeatedly criticised the governor for working from Ibadan, demanding his resignation if he cannot return to Ondo.
Speaking on a radio programme on Friday, Olatunde said since Akeredolu’s return, the state has been functioning and not in crisis as being speculated.
“This is the narrative of some individuals whose self-interest continues to drive their sudden media advocacy. What do they mean by ‘in crisis’?” he asked.
“The people of Ondo state can attest that the government is operational and effective. How can they claim the state is in crisis? Is development halted? Are various government departments not functioning?
“As of now, Governor Akeredolu’s administration is constructing the first-ever flyover in Akure, the state capital. Notably, no government has ever built a flyover in the state since its creation.
“In the past six years, this is the second flyover under this administration. The impact of the governor and the government is evident through projects that enhance people’s lives.
“After the governor’s return from his medical vacation, he approved the recruitment of 150 staff for the state Internal Revenue Service.
“Don’t forget that it was after the governor’s return that he signed the local council development area (LCDA) bill into law.
“In fact, after his return, the governor signed the 2023 appropriation bill for the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) into law, following its passage by the state house of assembly.”
Speaking on insinuations that Akeredolu is incapacitated, Olatunde said an incapacitated governor could not have received the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on a courtesy visit.
He alleged that some individuals are still opposing the governor for advocating southern presidency and also for establishing Amotekun, the south-west security outfit.
“Keep in mind that there are individuals still opposing Governor Akeredolu’s roles in establishing Amotekun and advocating for a southern presidency. Consider these factors when evaluating these insinuations,” he said.
“Governor Akeredolu is not incapacitated. The governor addressed this issue when he received the current national chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
“The former chairman, Adamu, didn’t contact the governor during his treatment in Germany. It’s absurd to declare someone incapacitated without even attempting to communicate with them.
“The truth of the matter is that the governor is fulfilling his constitutional roles. If anyone asserts otherwise, ask them what’s currently left undone in the state.”
‘ONDO IS THRIVING’
He added that Ondo is thriving as the governor has advanced the state’s development in all areas.
“Workers are receiving their salaries on time, and leave bonuses have been paid. Permanent secretaries have received brand new SUVs as official vehicles. The state is thriving,” he said.
“Vulnerable individuals receiving palliatives and pensioners receiving additional N10,000 monthly alongside their pensions are experiencing the governor’s presence.
“Those witnessing progress on the flyover construction in areas like Shagari, Onyarugbulem, and Irese road can feel the governor’s presence. People in Sijuade in Akure, driving on rehabilitated smooth roads, are also experiencing the governor’s impact.
“Those claiming that Ondo state is in crisis are merely motivated by their interests. Don’t lend credence to their statements.”
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