.- Says: I’m committed to APC reconciliation moves
By Banji Ayoola
Ondo State Deputy Governor, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has dissociated himself from any planned protests against his recuperating boss, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
Besides, he said that he remains committed to the ongoing reconciliation efforts of the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to amicably resolve the dispute between him and the state’s House of Assembly, which is trying to impeach him over some allegations.
In a statement he personally signed, he debunked the allegation of sponsoring any “Jara e gba” protest against his boss.
He said he was not aware of any such protest and that no group or association has his blessing to carry out public demonstrations of any kind.
He stated:“My attention has been drawn to some false publications in which it was alleged that a group loyal to me is planning to hold a protest against the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, today in Akure.
“This is to inform the good and peace loving people of Ondo State that I am not aware of any such protest and no group or association has my endorsement to carry out public demonstration of any kind.
“I affirm my commitment to the ongoing reconciliation efforts of the National leadership of our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the political situation in our State which is already yielding the much needed tranquility in the State.
“Therefore, I enjoin the security operatives in the state to continue to maintain peace and ensure that the good people of Ondo State go about their daily activities without any disturbance.”
Some youths in the state under the aegis of Ondo Youth and Masses Conscience, on Monday, raised alarm over an alleged plan by perceived Aiyedatiwa’s loyalists to protest against Governor Akeredolu’s absence.
The State Coordinator of the group, Adetunji Benjamin, alleged that “the plan involves the mobilization of youths, primarily from Ilaje in Ilaje local government area, who are expected to present a distorted account of Mr. Governor’s health status.
He alleged that the plan was aimed at portraying Akeredolu as incapacitated, and hidden away from public view by his family and associates.
He alleged: “Even worse, they intend to employ the slogan “Jara e gba” to mislead the people of the state and garner support for actions that may incite discord against the Governor.
“We strongly condemn these actions and call on the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to take notice of this treacherous endeavor, even after their previous interventions.
“While we are well aware of the character of those involved, it is essential to put on notice that despite the reconciliation efforts by the national leadership of the APC, the Deputy Governor and his supporters seem unwilling to embrace peace in the state.
“We are in possession of evidence of the planned press conference and protest, during which mocking statements were made about the people of Ondo State.
“This action undermines the efforts of the National Working Committee of the APC.
