Two commissioners, Rasaq Obe and Akinwumi Sowore, have declined to endorse the document to express unwavering support for Akeredolu’s leadership while 31 other members of the Ondo State Executive Council have expressed confidence by signing the document.

The endorsement comes amidst Akeredolu’s extended stay outside the state, following his medical vacation in Germany. He has been working from Ibadan, raising concerns among some stakeholders while his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who is facing charges of gross misconduct and likely impeachment by the House of Assembly is believed to be staying in Abuja according to The Nation.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisation for Democracy (CCSOD) has urged Akeredolu to either return to Akure or hand over to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who is facing impeachment proceedings.

According to The Nation, despite the concerns over his absence, the Executive Council has praised Akeredolu’s leadership, highlighting his achievements in various sectors, including security, infrastructure, and healthcare.

“As Mr. Governor’s foot soldiers, we take immense pride in being under his leadership. Witnessing his dedication, sleepless nights, and commitment to protecting and serving the people of the state, despite numerous challenges in the past, is truly admirable. 

“His leadership embodies compassion, vision, and commitment to development, progress, and peace

 ”In Ondo State today, we are reaping the benefits of Mr. Governor’s courage. The Amotekun Corps, a product of Mr. Governor’s determination, has become a celebrated innovation in the security architecture of the state and the Southwest in general. Since security is the primary objective of any government, the existence of Amotekun is a testament to Governor Akeredolu’s visionary leadership,” the executive said in a statement

”Therefore, we unanimously declare our unflinching trust in Mr. Governor and endorse his impactful leadership. As a united front, we remain steadfast in our support for Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, and pledge to continue working collaboratively towards the advancement and prosperity of the state. We express our gratitude to Mr. Governor for his selfless service and courageous leadership.”

However, Obe and Sowore have offered differing reasons for their refusal to endorse the document. 

Obe claimed he would have signed if he had seen it before traveling to Lagos, while Sowore questioned the need for a vote of confidence in the governor, suggesting it was a political ploy.

“ I’m not around in the state. The vote passed by the members of the cabinet in the state in a situation like this does not count, because in the first place, we are the appointees of Mr. Governor. We can’t even say that we don’t have confidence in him. Anybody that doesn’t have confidence in government have to resign. 

“By pushing a vote of confidence, as far as I’m concerned, does not make sense. We don’t have power to remove the governor as members of the cabinet.

“So, passing vote of confidence in the governor, in the first place, does not add anything to Mr. Governor. So, it is the work of those desperate politicians in the state to create crisis when there is no crisis,” Sowore said.