AKURE, Nigeria — Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State officially returned to his duties on Friday, September 8, 2023, after a month-long medical vacation abroad.
The resumption was formally announced by Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, who confirmed that the Governor is back in his office in the state capital, Akure.
“The letter which was received today during the Parliamentary meeting of the House confirms that the governor resumed duty today, Friday, 8th September, 2023,” said Oladiji, adding that Governor Akeredolu’s action is consistent with Section 190(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
In a gesture of gratitude, Governor Akeredolu held a stakeholders’ meeting at his Ibadan residence in Oyo State.
There, he formally handed over his letter of resumption to Speaker Oladiji and provided a copy to Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
“God has answered our prayers, and we give Him all the glory,” the Governor said, speaking to members of his executive council, party chieftains, and lawmakers. “By the grace of God, I will be alive to complete my full tenure in office.”
Richard Olatunde, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, quoted Akeredolu saying, “I came back yesterday, and as you know, it was a long journey. I decided that I must meet with you today… God has done what the majority of our people wanted.”
Speaking on behalf of the lawmakers, the Speaker expressed gratitude for the Governor’s safe return, describing it as a “prayer answered.”
The meeting was well-attended by an array of stakeholders including members of the National Assembly, such as Senator Jide Ipinsagba and Members of the House of Representatives.
Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the wife of the Governor, was also in attendance, along with representatives from various youth groups and the Foundation of Wives of Ondo State Officials, FOWOSO.
Governor Akeredolu also expressed his appreciation to the people of Ondo State for their ceaseless prayers and support during his recovery process.
“It’s your prayers that have kept us here. The office of the governor has resumed full work,” he said.
The return of the Governor puts an end to speculation surrounding his health and ability to serve, reassuring citizens and allies alike that governance in Ondo State will proceed as planned.
It will be recalled that Governor Akeredolu had previously informed the assembly of his medical leave in a letter dated June 4th, 2023, and later extended it on July 4th, 2023.
This makes his timely return a welcome development in the continuity of administrative functions and governance in the state.
