It Is Unfortunate What Aiyedatiwa Is Commissioning After 26 Months In Office – Akeredolu’s Former Aide Laments

Olabode Richard Akintunde, a former top aide to the late governor of Ondo State, has criticised the projects being lined up to mark Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s 26 months in office, describing them as largely inherited from the previous administration.

In a probing reaction, Akintunde said: “After spending 26 months in office as governor of Ondo State, it is unfortunate that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa will be commissioning these ‘monumental’ projects to mark his anniversary in office.”

He insisted most of the projects predated the current administration.

“Most of these projects were initiated and at least 65 percent completed by the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu administration,” he said.

Akintunde particularly faulted the continued delay in completing the Onyarubulem Flyover in Akure, widely regarded as the first flyover project in the state capital, emphasizing that.“the most unfortunate part is the inability of this administration to complete the Onyarubulem Flyover, the first flyover in Akure, the state capital, conceived and initiated by the Akeredolu administration.”

“After 26 months, with billions of naira accruing to the state from FAAC, the project is still not completed,” he stressed.

The former spokesperson questioned what he described as the defining accomplishments of the government after more than two years in office.

“What exactly is the major achievement of this government?” he asked, adding “Is it gala nights or the Poco Lee fame?”

Akintunde also referenced earlier indications that Bola Ahmed Tinubu was expected to commission projects in the state, expressing surprise that such engagements were not clearly reflected in anniversary plans.

“I read earlier this year that the Commissioner for Information said President Bola Tinubu had been invited to commission some of their projects,” he said and asked “Why is this not included as part of the activities lined up? Are these the projects you intended to invite the President to commission?”

His comments come amid lingering political tensions that followed the death of Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, who died on December 27, 2023, after a prolonged illness. His deputy was sworn in as governor hours later.

The succession had been preceded by deep political strains within the state’s power structure, including opposition from key figures such as Betty Akeredolu, with whom Akintunde is widely known to share close ties.

The divisions persisted even after the new governor completed the remainder of Akeredolu’s tenure, contested the November 16, 2024 governorship election, and was sworn in for a fresh term on February 24, 2025.

Akintunde’s remarks highlight continuing debate over legacy, succession politics, and development priorities in the state, as the administration marks more than two years since the leadership transition.