Ondo Governor Aiyedatiwa Dismisses Rumours of Plan to Remove Deputy

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has firmly denied speculations that he plans to remove his deputy, Olayide Adelami, describing the claim as baseless and driven by individuals seeking attention.

The rumour gained traction after a video surfaced online in which a cleric allegedly predicted that Adelami would be removed from office. The clip circulated widely on social media, fueling political gossip across Ondo State.

However, speaking publicly at the inauguration of the Ayegunle–Iwaro Oka Akoko Expressway in Akoko South-West Local Government Area, the governor dismissed the claims outright. He acknowledged his deputy during the ceremony and praised him for holding the fort in his absence, signalling that their working relationship remains intact.

“No Such Plan Exists,” Governor Insists

Addressing attendees at the event, Aiyedatiwa made it clear that there is no rift within his administration. He questioned the logic behind the alleged removal, stating that those spreading the story were merely looking for relevance.

The governor emphasized that the rumours should not be entertained, framing them as distractions from the government’s development agenda. His remarks were met with applause from supporters present at the commissioning ceremony.

Adelami was appointed deputy governor after Aiyedatiwa assumed office in December 2023, following the passing of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. The pair later contested and won the 2024 governorship election together, consolidating their political partnership.

Road Projects Mark One Year in Office

Beyond addressing the controversy, Aiyedatiwa used the occasion to highlight infrastructure milestones achieved under his administration as it marks its first anniversary.

He described the newly inaugurated six-kilometre Ayegunle–Iwaro Oka Road as a strategic investment designed to improve mobility and withstand heavy vehicular traffic. According to him, road construction and rehabilitation remain central to his administration’s development blueprint.

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The governor said several projects have been completed within a relatively short period, reflecting what he termed a commitment to delivering tangible benefits to residents.

Expanding Infrastructure Across Ondo

In addition to the Akoko project, Aiyedatiwa commissioned multiple road projects in Owo, including Opomulero, Iselu, and Isuada roads. The projects, spanning approximately 3.5 kilometres within the axis, are expected to improve connectivity, ease travel time, and stimulate commercial activities in the area.

He noted that improved road networks not only enhance transportation but also restore community confidence and support economic growth at the grassroots level.

As political rumours swirl, the governor appears focused on reinforcing unity within his administration while keeping attention on infrastructure development. For now, both Aiyedatiwa and Adelami remain publicly aligned, with the governor reiterating that there is no plan to alter the current leadership structure in Ondo State.