Resigned Ondo SSG makes U-turn, returns to Akeredolu’s camp

Political observers in Ondo State have been taken aback following the decision of the former Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde to return to the camp of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu two months after resigning from the governor’s cabinet.

Abegunde, popularly known as Abena within the political circle, had on July 6 vowed to work against his erstwhile boss’s reelection bid in the forthcoming October 10 governorship election in the State.

TIMELINENG gathered that some political and community leaders in the State facilitated the reconciliation between the former SSG and Akeredolu.

Abegunde had alleged that the 2016 governorship election was purportedly rigged for Akeredolu, an allegation he had denied but the governor had started pursuing legal action against him until the latest political development.

Following his resignation, Abegunde had declared support for one of the governorship aspirants, Segun Abraham, who later stepped down for Akeredolu.

Dissapointed with the development, the ex-SSG later switched support for another governorship aspirant, Olayide Adelami, who lost to Akeredolu in the fifth position after polling four votes.

Akeredolu had since replaced him with his Akure kinsman, Tayo Oluwatuyi as the SSG.

According to sources, Abegunde, on Sunday evening, met with Governor Akeredolu at the Government House, Alagbaka, Akure.

Sources at the meeting hinted that Abegunde who met with the Governor alongside the former Commissioner for Special Duties during the Governor Olusegun Mimiko’s administration, Femi Adekanmbi, as well as the governor’s son, Babajide, has settled his differences with the Governor.

One of the source said “Yes, Abena (Abegunde) was with the Governor this evening. They have settled their differences.

“From now on, he will be working with other APC faithful to ensure the victory of the APC and Akeredolu in the forthcoming election.”