Impeachment: Why APC Gave Aiyedatiwa Soft Landing — Source

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has come under scrutiny for its involvement in the impeachment proceedings against the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Emerging information suggests that the APC Peace Committee, tasked with mediating the dispute between Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa, may have shown a favorable bias toward the embattled deputy governor.

Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the party, established the reconciliation committee to address the escalating political discord between the two Ondo State leaders. The committee convened a significant peace meeting in Abuja, which included key figures such as Ade Adetimehin, the State Chairman of the party, Aiyedatiwa, and members of the National Assembly.

Sources with knowledge of the Abuja meeting disclosed that the majority of committee members displayed sympathy for Aiyedatiwa. This apparent bias stems from unresolved grievances they hold against Governor Akeredolu. These grudges are rooted in Akeredolu’s vocal positions on national matters, particularly during the former President Muhammadu Buhari administration.

It appears that the committee had already formed a predetermined stance, with some members harboring personal disputes with the governor. They perceive Akeredolu as a stubborn figure, primarily due to his outspoken views on issues like Fulani herdsmen and the demand for restructuring. Additionally, some committee members were critical of Akeredolu for championing the establishment of Amotekun, the regional security outfit in the Southwest.

Despite the majority of the Ondo State House of Representatives and Senators urging Aiyedatiwa to apologize to the governor, the committee seems committed to safeguarding the deputy governor, even if he chooses not to apologize.

As the situation stands, concerns are rising over the impartiality of the committee’s recommendations, with indications that they may lean against the governor and members of the House of Assembly.

In response to the evolving situation, members of the Ondo State House of Assembly have expressed a desire to consult with their counterparts from various political parties regarding the proposed political solution offered by the APC.

Mr. Olatunji Emmanuel, the spokesperson for the assembly, revealed the APC lawmakers’ intentions. They believe that, in the spirit of genuine efforts to find a political solution, the Deputy Governor should take steps to withdraw the multiple court cases he has filed in connection with the impeachment. This would create a conducive environment for stakeholders to engage in discussions concerning settlement proposals, while also preventing any actions or comments that might interfere with the ongoing legal process.