There is currently a state of tension within the government house of Ondo State. Reports have emerged indicating that the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is making demands and raising questions regarding the earnings and expenditures of his principal, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, in the administration of the state. It is worth noting that Governor Akeredolu is currently abroad for medical treatment and has temporarily transferred power to his deputy until his return on July 6.
According to sources, Aiyedatiwa has been undermining the authority of the governor's office through his actions and decisions. An anonymous source stated that their main concern is ensuring due process rather than getting involved in the political turmoil within the government. The source clarified that the governor's office does not directly instruct them to release funds and emphasized the existence of established procedures for financial disbursements, all of which must go through the Ministry of Finance.
In addition to the monthly running grant allocated to the deputy governor's office, Aiyedatiwa has reportedly demanded that the governor's running grant and other emoluments associated with the office of the governor be handed over to him as the acting Governor. The source further revealed that the deputy governor has summoned and threatened two officials, inquired about the governor's spending, and demanded information regarding the disbursement of funds allocated to the governor's office.
The deputy governor believes that he is entitled to two streams of funding, insisting that the governor's office allocation should be included as part of his role as the acting governor. However, despite the officials' explanations that even the governor's office follows financial protocols and obtains approvals through the Ministry of Finance, Aiyedatiwa remains obstinate and continues to demand immediate funds. His confrontational and demanding behavior is seen as executive recklessness by the concerned officials, who prefer not to be involved in any reckless activities despite the high tensions.
It is evident that the absence of Governor Akeredolu has created a tense atmosphere within the government house, with the deputy governor making demands and questioning the financial processes of the governor's office. The situation highlights the need for proper communication and adherence to established protocols to ensure the responsible use of public funds.
