Tension as Ondo deputy gov makes demands in Akeredolu’s absence

There is tension in Ondo State’s government house as reports have emerged that the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has been making demands and asking questions about his principal, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s earnings and spending in running the affairs of the state.

Recall that Akeredolu embarked on medical treatment abroad and transmitted power to his deputy, as he is billed to return to the country on July 6.

But, sources revealed to Vanguard that Aiyedatiwa has reportedly been “Undermining the authority of the governor’s office through his actions and decisions.”

A source who spoke on the condition of anonymity said, “We are not concerned about the political turmoil within the government. Our priority is ensuring due process. The governor’s office does not directly instruct us to release funds.

“There are established procedures for financial disbursements in the government, and all approvals must go through the Ministry of Finance.

“Aside from the running grant accruing to the deputy governor’s office monthly, he has also demanded that the governor’s running grant and other emoluments attached to the office of the governor be handed to him as acting Governor.

“In the past week, the deputy governor has summoned and threatened two of our officials. He has inquired about the governor’s spending and demanded to know how funds allocated to the governor’s office are disbursed.

“He believes he is entitled to two streams of funding, insisting that the governor’s office allocation should be included as part of his role as acting governor.

“During the encounters with our officials, they kindly explained that even the governor’s office route its approvals through the Ministry of Finance.

“However, the deputy governor remains obstinate, repeatedly demanding immediate funds. Despite our attempts to educate him on proper financial protocols and the responsible use of public funds, he persists.

“He has been confrontational and demanding. We see this as executive recklessness. While we understand tensions may be high, we would prefer not to be involved in any reckless activities.”