The Ondo Masses Solidarity Movement (MSM) has alleged that the embattled deputy governor of the state, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, was the mastermind behind the aborted protest in the state on Monday.

On Monday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State staged a protest against the sealing of its secretariat. The closure followed a planned protest against the continued absence of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu in the state, following his return from a medical vacation abroad.

Security operatives, including personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, DSS, and NSCDC, surrounded the PDP secretariat at around 6:30 a.m.

Speaking about the protest, Ogunyemi Jeremiah, the Coordinator of MSM, claimed that it was intended to incite a crisis in the state and derail the deputy governor's impeachment process.

Jeremiah stated, “Aiyedatiwa had been reaching out to opposition parties and youths to occupy the streets of Akure and protest against the governor.

“We have it on good authority that the deputy governor instigated the protest and had already sponsored some youths to join the protest. A meeting was held at a hotel in Alagabaka, Akure last night where money was shared among the youths.

“As stakeholders in this state and voice of the masses, we condemn in strong terms the activities of the embattled deputy governor. We are astonished by the actions of the deputy governor and his resolve to set the state on fire.

“We appreciate the security agencies for rising to the occasion. We are aware that the protest would have led to wanton destruction of properties and people’s lives.

“The planned protest was never in the interest of the masses. The masses are receiving their palliative and also enjoying thriving sales due to the regular payment of salaries and leave bonuses in the state.