In response to claims made by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa regarding the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s desire for him to succeed as governor, Richard Olatunde, former Chief Press Secretary to Governor Akeredolu, has refuted such assertions.
Olatunde clarified that Governor Akeredolu never expressed any wish for Aiyedatiwa to succeed him.
In a statement released to journalists on Tuesday, Olatunde addressed Aiyedatiwa’s assertion that he was chosen by the late governor as his successor.
He emphasized that Governor Akeredolu did not intend for Aiyedatiwa to follow in his footsteps, contrary to the latter’s claims.
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Olatunde warned Aiyedatiwa against exploiting the late governor’s name for political gain, stating that the narrative of Akeredolu’s alleged desire for Aiyedatiwa to succeed him has been circulating for some time.
Furthermore, Olatunde highlighted the strained relationship between Governor Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa, noting that the late governor deliberately kept Aiyedatiwa at a distance during his health challenges.
He also referenced a video from the swearing-in ceremony of Governor Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa, where the late governor’s high hopes for Aiyedatiwa were evident.
However, Olatunde emphasized that trust was betrayed, confidence shattered, and the true intentions of Aiyedatiwa overshadowed by desperation.
Concluding the statement, Olatunde urged Aiyedatiwa to cease deceptive tactics and focus on his campaign, asserting that Akeredolu’s loyal supporters, including members of his family, do not endorse Aiyedatiwa’s bid for the party’s ticket.
