Former aide: Akeredolu was heartbroken, he never anointed Aiyedatiwa as successor

Richard Olatunde, the former chief press secretary (CPS) to the late Rotimi Akeredolu, says his principal did not anoint Lucky Aiyedatiwa, governor of Ondo, as his successor.

On Tuesday, Aiyedatiwa officially declared his intention to contest the November 16 governorship election in Ondo state.

Aiyedatiwa said it was the wish of the late governor, that he succeeds him.

In December 2023, Aiyedatiwa was sworn in as the substantive governor of Ondo after the death of Akeredolu.

‘AKEREDOLU WAS HEARTBROKEN BEFORE HIS DEATH’

In a statement on Wednesday, Olatunde warned Aiyedatiwa to stop using the name of the late governor for political gains.

The former spokesperson said the relationship between the late Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa was “strained” before the passing away of his principal.

Olatunde said his principal was “deeply disappointed” by the “character traits” displayed by Aiyedatiwa during his health challenges.

He added that ardent supporters and family members of the late governor are not in support of Aiyedatiwa’s governorship ambition.

“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.”