Accommodation challenges prompt governor Akeredolu to work from Ibadan: Ondo Government explains

Doyin Odebowale, the Special Adviser on Special Duty and Strategy to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, recently shed light on the reasons behind the Governor’s remote working arrangements and his absence from the state. According to Odebowale, the main factor contributing to this decision is accommodation challenges in the state capital, Akure.

Akeredolu has notably been working from Ibadan, Oyo State, since his return from a medical trip abroad. This move has stirred some controversy within the state, particularly among the youth of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who issued an ultimatum for the governor’s return.

In an interview with Channels Television on Tuesday, Odebowale emphasized the importance of Governor Akeredolu’s health, which prompted the need for more suitable accommodation to effectively manage the affairs of the South-West state.

Odebowale stated, “Aketi came back in September. Where he used to stay – the Presidential Lodge built for the visiting president at that time Olusegun Obasanjo – is a two-bedroom apartment.”

However, due to the governor’s prolonged stay in the state, he could not continue to occupy such limited accommodation. Odebowale added, “The Old Governor’s Office – the Governor’s Lodge built by the previous administration is now the office of the investment outlet called the ODIPA. That’s the office.”

He further explained, “So, the governor has been managing a two-bedroom apartment for six years. But his current state of health would not permit him to pretend that all is well.”

In response to concerns about the governor’s remote work location, Odebowale questioned, “When they say they want to see Aketi, do they want to see him at the site so that he would be carrying cement or following workmen? What exactly? The civil servants have been paid all their salaries. Aketi has been signing laws since he came back.”

The government is actively working on providing a more suitable place for Governor Akeredolu, and this new accommodation is nearing completion.

This explanation provides insights into the challenges faced by public officials in carrying out their duties and how they address them to ensure effective governance.

Credit: Channels TV