ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Ondo State Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is poised to assume the role of the state Governor following the demise of his principal, Rotimi Akeredolu.
Akeredolu passed away in the early hours of Wednesday after battling prostate cancer.
An anonymous cabinet member disclosed to Peoples Gazette that preparations were underway to swear in Mr. Aiyedatiwa as the new governor.
The state’s Chief Judge, Olusegun Odusola, is reportedly making arrangements for a smooth transition of power.
Expressing sadness over the development, the cabinet member emphasized that, in accordance with the constitution, Lucky Aiyedatiwa is set to take over as the governor of the state.
“We are sad by the development, but in line with the constitution, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has to take over in full capacity as the governor of the state.
READ ALSO: Again, Akeredolu Transfers Power To Aiyedatiwa, Proceed On Medical Leave Abroad
“So, he (Aiyedatiwa) would take his office and be sworn in by the chief judge at any time from now by the CJ. We are already preparing the ground for him,” he said.
The swearing-in ceremony is expected to be conducted by the Chief Judge at any moment, with preparations already underway for the transition.
Efforts to get reactions from the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Titiloye Charles, were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
Meanwhile, the impending swearing-in of Aiyedatiwa aligns with the provisions of Section 191(1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.
According to the constitution, “The deputy governor of a state shall hold the office of governor of the state if the office of governor becomes vacant by reason of death, resignation, impeachment, permanent incapacity, or removal of the governor from office for any other reason in accordance with sections 188 or 189 of this constitution.”
Rotimi Akeredolu served as the Ondo governor from February 2017 until his passing, leaving behind his wife, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, and four children.
The transition of power to Aiyedatiwa is a constitutional process, ensuring the continuity of governance in the state.