Governor Aiyedatiwa assumed leadership following the untimely passing of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who succumbed to a prolonged illness on December 27, 2023, at a German hospital.

The funeral rites for Akeredolu are scheduled to take place from February 15 to February 25 in Ibadan, Akure, and Owo, as per the arrangements made by his family.

Governor Akeredolu last month began medical leave and said he would resume duties on July 7.

Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, said Akeredolu’s action was in line with Section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

The new extension, according to Speaker Olamide Oladiji, was based on the doctor’s advice for the Governor to take adequate rest while recuperating.

In the letter, it was stated that Akeredolu’s deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa would continue to act as governor until there is a written declaration to the contrary.

According to him, the proposed Port Ondo will go a long way to decongest the Apapa Port in Lagos State.

The Governor stated this while speaking at the South-West Export Enlightenment and Engagement Forum in Akure.

The theme of the event was “Maximizing Export Potentials In The South-West Region For Economic Growth”.

While explaining that goods are moved through the Sunshine State to the Southeast, Southsouth, Northwest and Northcentral, Akeredolu noted that Ondo State is strategically positioned.

Akeredolu stressed that investors have already shown interest in developing the Port, saying the state has the deepest draught in West Africa.

“Everything going to southeast or South-South and the North must pass through Ondo state. All these activities will make us advise the federal government on the importance of Port Ondo.

“Apapa will be decongested. We can boast of the deepest draught in west Africa. We are ready and we have done our work and people have shown interest. It is a pity we have to go through a lot of protocols including the port declaration,” the Governor said.

Akeredolu said the Akure airport which was originally designed as a cargo airport should be given due attention so that it can serve its purpose.

“The airport in Akure is so busy now but it is not serving the purpose for which it was established. The Akure airport was established as a cargo airport.

” We have said it should have a refrigerated area where people can refrigerate their goods before exporting them,” he said.

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu on Special Duties and Strategy, Dr Doyin Odebowale, also ordered the NURTW members to immediately vacate all motor parks across the state.

The government described the clash as unruly and uncultured behaviour of the union leaders which resulted in violent attacks on members and innocent citizens.

The government, however, said the indefinite suspension did not affect the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria who comported themselves in a peaceful manner.

Akeredolu was sworn in alongside his deputy, Mr Lucky Ayedatiwa.

The ceremony was performed by the state Chief Judge, Justice Olanrewaju Akeredolu

The ceremony took place at the International Culture and Events Centre, Akure, the state capital.

The recovery of the governor is coming in less than a week, after the governor on Tuesday, June 30, 2020, disclosed via his Twitter handle that he tested positive to the coronavirus disease.

In a related development, Governor Akeredolu in a televised broadcast revealed the news of his recovery, alleging that he was unshaken despite the alteration of the times Nigeria.

Details of the press briefing by Akeredolu reads: “As a mark of respect for the departed and as part of the mourning period, we have not appointed a new commissioner for Health. I have only approved that my Special Adviser on Health supervises the Ministry until we take further decisions.

“Let me use this opportunity to passionately appeal to all our people to please take the fight against COVID-19 seriously. Let us deliberately address our minds to implement all the precautionary measures pronounced and activated by the Government.

“Presently, the Infectious Disease Hospital here in Akure has been stretched to the limits, so also are our medical equipment and personnel. The obvious implication of this for us is that prevention is the best way to reduce pressure on cure.

“A total of 20 people have lost their lives to the Virus while over 472 have tested positive to the infection. While the number of confirmed cases has escalated, the number of discharged cases as at today is 113.

“We have commenced Covid19 testing at the Federal Medical Center, Owo while the Akure Testing Centre will also commence in due course. Our third center in Ondo is currently being designed.

“I do not believe the life of anyone in the state is worth a dirty struggle for office. It must be noted that elections and the results obtained thereof are only meaningful to an existing, safe, and healthy society where peace and prosperity reign.

“My dear people, in spite of the vicissitude of the times, I wish to tell you that I am unshaken in my conviction and faith in our ability to overcome this pandemic. I urge us all to act responsibly, deepen our prayers for divine intervention and perfect healing for our state.”

However, since the announcement of Akeredolu’s health status, it has generated a lot of controversies between himself and his Deputy Governor, Agboola Ajayi.