In response to recent statements by the current governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Richard Olatunde, who served as the Chief Press Secretary to the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, clarified that Akeredolu did not intend for Aiyedatiwa to succeed him.
Olatunde released a statement to journalists, addressing Aiyedatiwa’s claims about the late governor’s wishes.
Earlier this year, Aiyedatiwa indicated that he considered himself a continuation of Akeredolu’s legacy and that Akeredolu had wanted him to take over as governor.
Aiyedatiwa expressed that it would have been a proud moment for Akeredolu to see him become the next governor if he were still alive.
However, Olatunde countered these claims on Tuesday, asserting that Akeredolu had not endorsed Aiyedatiwa as his successor.
He cautioned Aiyedatiwa against leveraging the late governor’s name for political gain.
Olatunde said, “The narrative surrounding the alleged desire of our late leader, Late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, for Governor Aiyedatiwa to succeed him has gained traction.
“This narrative emerged even before our leader’s burial. Out of reverence for our late governor, we refrained from engaging with those promoting this narrative.
“While we acknowledge the escalating political environment in the state, we wish to clarify that the late governor did not formally appoint or express a wish for Aiyedatiwa to succeed him. In fact, the relationship between Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa became strained and distant before his passing.
“Despite official engagements and interactions in Akure, the late governor deliberately maintained a distance from Mr. Aiyedatiwa, who was then the deputy governor, in Ibadan.
“Our late governor was disappointed by certain actions and traits exhibited by Aiyedatiwa during his health challenges, which eventually led to his death.
“We have also noted the circulation of a video from the swearing-in ceremony of the late governor and Mr. Aiyedatiwa. It is evident that Akeredolu had high hopes for Aiyedatiwa, but he never explicitly designated him as his successor.
“Events took a different turn in the latter part of last year. Trust was broken, confidence shattered, and desperation overshadowed Akeredolu’s goodwill. What ensued was a story of disillusionment and betrayal. Our late leader was deeply hurt before his passing.
“Therefore, we urge Mr. Aiyedatiwa to halt these deceptive strategies and concentrate on his campaign. Akeredolu’s loyal supporters, including his family members, do not endorse Aiyedatiwa’s bid to secure the party’s nomination.”