Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu, the First Lady of Ondo State and wife of ailing Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu has asked residents of the state, particularly those criticising some of her husband’s policies to go “hug an electric transformer.”
The outburst came after a portion of the barricades installed on the busy dual carriageway of the popular Oba Adesida road was removed by acting governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Mrs Akeredolu wrote on her social media page on Monday. “I’m an activist. Truth must be told. If e dey pain you, go hug transformer.”
“Wall of Jericho, was it for a run? No! For public safety to prevent reckless driving and accidents. Get some sense, people. Cheap popularity.”
Mrs Akeredolu also took a swipe at residents criticizing her response:
She alleged that Mr Aiyedatiwa was only sourcing for ‘cheap popularity’ by removing the portion of the barricade on the road.
Aiyedatiwa’s initiative was hailed by residents who have been inconvenienced by the barricades.
The barricade otherwise known as Akure’s ‘Wall of Jericho’ was installed early this year by Mr Akeredolu following the incessant accidents and usual vehicular and human traffic that have impacted the social and economic activities in the city.
On resumption as acting governor, Aiyedatiwa instructed that a section of the barricade be removed to ease vehicular traffic during the festive season.
A number of residents however, joined the First Lady to criticize the Acting Governor. They linked his action to the 2024 politics claiming he is already testing his acceptability.
Since its installation, the critics of the first family insist that it was a poorly thought out project.
Aiyedatiwa on his part, has not reacted to the criticisms.
He is however, expected to announce some of his aides, including official spokespersons, this week.
One of the aides, who spoke on conditions of anonymity said the acting governor would rather not dignify the office of the First Lady of the state with a response.
“We don’t want to dignify the office of the First Lady with any response. Although I’m not authorised to speak but I know the people of the state can judge and pass comments on the decision made by the acting governor.
“More importantly, is how the barricades had been affecting them a few days to Christmas and to ease both vehicular and human movements en route to Oba Oja, that decision had to be taken. Whoever thinks it’s for politics can’t also know nor understand better than those plying the routes at this festive period,” he said.