Akeredolu’s Son Seeks Tinubu’s Assistance for Air Ambulance Amid Governor’s Health Deterioration

In light of Ondo Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s worsening health condition, his son, Babajide Akeredolu, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu for assistance in arranging an air ambulance to return his ailing father to Germany, where he has been undergoing leukemia treatment. The governor has been receiving chemotherapy in Nigeria, resulting in severe side effects, including a 10-hour incapacitation after each session.

Family sources revealed on Tuesday that Governor Akeredolu’s health has deteriorated to the point where he is unable to speak. Babajide Akeredolu is seeking President Tinubu’s permission and support to expedite the air ambulance arrangement for his father’s transfer to Germany.

Earlier reports on Tuesday stated that President Tinubu had directed Governor Akeredolu to delegate power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Senator Jimoh Ibrahim. The electronic signature (e-signature) method will be employed for the power transfer due to the governor’s weakened state, preventing him from physically signing documents.

During a meeting summoned by President Tinubu on Monday to address the leadership crisis in Ondo, attendees were informed of Governor Akeredolu’s incapacitation, leading to the decision to transfer power electronically. The emergency meeting was the second called by President Tinubu in response to mounting pressure from civil society organization Take-It-Back, threatening mass protests for Akeredolu’s resignation.

Sources disclosed that there were initial discussions about invoking the doctrine of necessity to appoint Aiyedatiwa as acting governor, but concerns about humiliating the ailing governor led to the decision for an e-signature power transfer.

There is also apprehension about potential forgery concerns, considering the existing controversy surrounding the handling of the state’s affairs.

Meanwhile, the pro-democracy organization Take-It-Back Movement plans a town hall meeting in Akure on December 16 to demand Governor Akeredolu’s resumption or resignation. The event marks the beginning of street protests calling for the ailing governor’s resignation, who has been absent from the state since July 2023.