Fresh Plans to Select Deputy Governor Underway in Ondo State

Sources close to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State have disclosed that preparations are in progress to appoint a suitably qualified deputy governor for the new administration. It is reported that Governor Aiyedatiwa is currently considering about four individuals for the position.

Following the passing of Rotimi Akeredolu on Wednesday, December 27, after battling prostate cancer, Governor Aiyedatiwa assumed office as the new governor of Ondo State. Reports indicate that one of the late governor’s appointees, who was aligned with Aiyedatiwa prior to Akeredolu’s death, may be chosen as the deputy governor in the coming days.

Several key figures within the new administration have emerged as potential candidates for the deputy governor position. These include Razaq Obe, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources; Akinwumi Sowore, Commissioner for Commerce, Industry, and Cooperatives; Olugbenga Ale, Chief of Staff; and Olumide Falana, the Special Adviser on Gender.

Notably, Obe and Sowore were the only two cabinet members who declined to sign the vote of confidence passed on the late governor by 33 members of the State Executive Council on November 16, 2023. Obe also raised concerns about the alleged forgery of Akeredolu’s signatures by certain individuals within the cabinet.

As the public eagerly awaits the announcement of Aiyedatiwa’s choice for deputy governor, sources suggest that Obe, who hails from Ifedore Local Council in the Central Senatorial District of the state, is a strong contender due to his close ties with the governor. Additionally, the possibility of selecting Ale is being considered as a means to honor the Owo community, the late governor’s hometown.

While Razaq Obe had initially been seen as the frontrunner for the position, the recent developments following Akeredolu’s demise have brought Olugbenga Ale’s name into consideration, adding a new dimension to the selection process.

Source: Politics Nigeria