Elder statesman and leader of the pan Yoruba sociocultural organization, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, has called on President Bola Tinubu, and the national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Umar Ganduje, to intervene in the current political crisis in Ondo State.
This is even as the prominent nationalist warned the state House of Assembly against carrying out impeachment of either the state Governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu or his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Fasoranti, who convened a meeting of Ondo State Elders and Leaders on the current political logjam in the state, stressed the need for all the gladiators in the state to embrace peace in the interest of the people of Ondo State.
Present at the meeting were traditional, religious and professional leaders, market women, the academia and other notable stakeholders.
In a communique issued at the end of the meeting, the forum expressed concern on the prolonged absence of the Governor, who is also incommunicado due to his health challenges.
The communique read in parts: “Misinformation of the Governor and lack of communication between the Governor and his deputy have resulted in the inability of the Deputy Governor to perform constitutional duties on behalf of the Governor, for the good governance of the state.
“Failure of the national ruling party and the executive arm of government to nip the matter in the bud before the escalation of the crisis despite the laudable efforts made.
“Efforts already made and being made by some individuals, elders/leaders to mitigate the crisis; apparent confusion and helplessness of civil/public servants in the state in the absence of appropriate and clearly delineated directives.
“Feeling of hopelessness by the citizens of Ondo State, in not enjoying continually, the expected dividends of democracy and good governance.
“Current utter disrespect for the rule of law in Ondo State, whereby self-serving persons have taken over the government without due regard to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” it added.
The forum also called for prayers for the improved health of Governor Akeredolu, noting that his absence has caused lack of sustained good governance in the state.