The acting governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, will be sworn in today as the substantive governor, as planned, following the demise of Rotimi Akeredolu.
Aiyedatiwa, who was in his hometown for the Christmas break when the news of the governor’s death broke, will soon arrive at the state capital, Akure, for the swearing-in.
It was further learned that the swearing-in has been tentatively fixed for 4 p.m., barring any last-minute change in plan.
Ondo state chief judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, is expected to preside over the exercise.
Aiyedatiwa was the deputy governor until Wednesday, December 13, when power was formally transferred to him after Akeredolu went on another medical vacation.
Chronicle NG reports that Akeredolu died on Wednesday at 67.
The state government, while confirming the death of the governor, said he died in Germany on Wednesday after battling prostate cancer.
The statement issued by the state commissioner for information and orientation, Mrs. Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, read, “With a heavy heart, the Ondo State Government announces the passing of our beloved governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
“Mr. Governor peacefully departed from this world in the early hours of today, Wednesday, December 27, 2023. This tragedy has left behind a profound void in our hearts.
“Governor Akeredolu answered the eternal call while receiving medical treatment in Germany. He succumbed to complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.”
The governor embarked on two separate medical vacations, the first on April 3, 2023, and the second on July 10, 2023. On September 7, he made his way back to the country and promptly notified the State House of Assembly.
