Allen Sowore, a human rights lawyer born in Ondo, has called upon President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the ‘looming political crisis’ in Ondo State, aiming to prevent a repetition of the 1983 post-election war in the state.
Mr Sowore made this plea in an open letter addressed to Mr Tinubu regarding the continued absence of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu from the state and the ongoing impeachment proceedings against the deputy governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, initiated by the House of Assembly.
In the copy of the letter obtained by Peoples Gazette, the human rights lawyer alleged that some members of Mr Akeredolu’s inner circle have taken control of governance to the detriment of the general populace in the state.
“In light of these concerns, I respectfully bring to your attention the pressing issues and the impending political crisis in Ondo State. It is evident that Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, CON has been unwell for a considerable period.
“Mr President, we are deeply concerned and anxious because the current situation bears a striking resemblance to the 1983 Adekunle Ajasin and Omoboriowo crisis. We cannot allow that dark chapter of our history to repeat itself, especially with you serving as the President and Commander-in-Chief.
“In light of the above, I earnestly implore you to take immediate notice and intervene in the unfolding political impasse in Ondo State before it escalates into a full-blown crisis,” an excerpt from the letter read.
Last week, the governor’s spokesman, Richard Olatunde, accused “critics” of Mr Akeredolu of instigating a crisis in the state by taking advantage of his continued absence to spread falsehoods.
Mr Olatunde asserted that despite the absence of his principal, the governor is still performing and fulfilling his constitutional duties in the state.
“The truth of the matter is that the Governor is fulfilling his constitutional role. If anyone asserts otherwise, ask them what remains undone in the state…,” the governor’s spokesman stated in a live radio interview programme monitored by The Gazette in Akure.
However, contrary to Mr Olatunde’s position, Mr Sowore noted in his letter to the president that the people of the state have demonstrated immense empathy and offered fervent prayers for Mr Akeredolu’s recovery.
He mentioned that while it was encouraging that the governor was recuperating since his return from Germany, he was still unable to resume the rigorous day-to-day responsibilities of governing the state.
According to Mr Sowore, this is likely why Mr Akeredolu has yet to return to Akure, the capital of Ondo State, since his return from his medical vacation on September 7, 2023.
“The state now finds itself adrift, with the security of life and property left vulnerable to criminal elements, security agencies exercising unchecked power over citizens, and streets littered with waste and debris.
“The entire health sector is in shambles, and major roads within Ondo State are in dire need of repair. Our once-proud education system is in a state of decay.
“Members of the State House of Assembly have elevated themselves to almost divine status, insisting on proceeding with the impeachment of the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, despite a valid court order to the contrary. Even the intervention of the National Executive of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has fallen on deaf ears,” he added in the letter.
