“What their desperation did to Akeredolu” — Bello

Bakita Bello, former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, has voiced strong criticism against certain politicians, accusing them of displaying insufficient regard and reverence for the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

In an interview with PUNCH, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart expressed dismay over the conduct of certain political figures amidst the political upheaval that engulfed the state a few months ago.

Bello attributed the discord, involving the House of Assembly members, Akeredolu, and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to the failure to adhere to constitutional provisions outlined in the 1999 Constitution.

Bello emphasized the constitutional mandate necessitating the transmission of power to the deputy governor when essential for the seamless governance of the state.

He lamented the exploitation of the political crisis by opportunistic individuals who disregarded established authority and the rule of law, driven primarily by personal ambitions linked to the 2024 gubernatorial election.

“The crisis stemmed from the failure to adhere to the dictates of the 1999 Constitution as Amended (2011), requiring the governor to transfer power to the deputy for the effective functioning of government.

“Thankfully, the rightful course of action was eventually taken, and the acting governor has assumed the substantive role,” remarked Bello.

He expressed deep concern over the conduct of certain political actors who, while acknowledging the influence of the impending governorship race, exhibited opportunism, insubordination, and an alarming lack of respect for lawful authority and due process.

Bello highlighted their failure to demonstrate empathy and respect for the challenges faced by the late governor amidst the turmoil.

“The underlying motivations may have revolved around the upcoming governorship contest, but the conduct of those involved showcased a blatant disregard for established authority, revealing a lack of empathy and respect for Governor Akeredolu’s predicament,” he stated.