The embattled Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has denied endorsing any planned protest against Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, from the state.
Recall that youths in the state under the aegis of Ondo Youth and Masses Conscience, on Monday, raised alarm over plan by those loyal to the Deputy Governor, to protest against Governor Akeredolu’s absence.
The State Coordinator of the youth group, Adetunji Benjamin, alleged that “the plan involves the mobilization of youths, primarily from Ilaje in Ilaje local government area, who are expected to present a distorted account of Mr. Governor’s health status.
They alleged that the plan was aimed at portraying Akeredolu as incapacitated, hidden away from public view by his family and associates.
“Even worse, they intend to employ the slogan “Jara e gba” to mislead the people of the state and garner support for actions that may incite discord against the Governor.
“We strongly condemn these actions and call on the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to take notice of this treacherous endeavor, even after their previous interventions.
“While we are well aware of the character of those involved, it is essential to put on notice that despite the reconciliation efforts by the national leadership of the APC, the Deputy Governor and his supporters seem unwilling to embrace peace in the state.
“We are in possession of evidence of the planned press conference and protest, during which mocking statements were made about the people of Ondo State.
“This action undermines the efforts of the National Working Committee of the APC.
But the Deputy Governor in a statement he personally signed in Akure, disowned the alleged protesters.
Aiyedatiwa said that “My attention has been drawn to some false publications in which it was alleged that a group loyal to me is planning to hold a protest against the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, today in Akure.
“This is to inform the good and peace loving people of Ondo State that I am not aware of any such protest and no group or association has my endorsement to carry out public demonstration of any kind.
“I affirm my commitment to the ongoing reconciliation efforts of the National leadership of our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the political situation in our State which is already yielding the much needed tranquility in the State.
“Therefore, I enjoin the security operatives in the state to continue to maintain peace and ensure that the good people of Ondo State go about their daily activities without any disturbance.”
The post Keep me out of any protest against Akeredolu – Aiyedatiwa first appeared on Opinion Nigeria.
