In a somber turn of events, Ondo State is grieving the loss of its Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who reportedly passed away on Wednesday at the age of 67.

 While official statements from the state government are yet to be released, sources reveal that preparations are underway to swear in the deputy governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as the successor.

A high-ranking member of the ruling All Progressives Congress in the state confirmed the governor's demise, highlighting the ongoing arrangements for the transition of power. However, the Alagbaka Government House remained silent, and efforts to obtain official confirmation proved unsuccessful at the time of reporting.

The news of Governor Akeredolu's death follows earlier reports on December 13, 2023, stating that he was returning to Germany for further medical treatment. Richard Olatunde, the governor's spokesperson, had announced that Akeredolu intended to transmit a letter to the state House of Assembly, temporarily handing over governance to Deputy Governor Lucy Aiyedatiwa.

Akeredolu's battle with cancer had led to previous medical leaves, during which Aiyedatiwa assumed the role of acting governor. The governor had taken a medical vacation from April 3, 2023, to July 10, 2023, and again on September 7, 2023. Upon his return, he resided in his private residence in Ibadan, creating a perceived leadership vacuum in Ondo State, with the executive council divided between loyalists of the governor and the deputy governor.

In the aftermath of his second medical leave, Aiyedatiwa, now acting in Akeredolu's stead, appealed for unity among the people and stakeholders to carry forward the governor's vision for the state. Acknowledging the recent political crisis, he urged everyone to set aside differences and collaborate in fostering the development of the state.

During a statewide broadcast, Aiyedatiwa stated, "Yesterday is already behind us. This is the time to carry aloft, with love and affection for one another, the laudable vision and mission of the governor for the state." He called for genuine support, cooperation, and dedication, emphasizing the need for renewed unity to realize the accelerated development envisioned by Governor Akeredolu.

As Ondo State navigates this challenging period, the acting governor reassured the people that the government had overcome the temporary delay in its democratic journey and was committed to moving forward in the pursuit of progress.