In a recent development, the Society for Women Empowerment (SWE) has leveled serious accusations against Lucky Ayedatiwa, the deputy governor of Ondo State.
The group has accused Ayedatiwa of physically assaulting his wife, Oluwaseun, on two separate occasions within the last four months.
The National Coordinator of SWE, Mrs. Damilola Charles, issued a statement over the weekend, highlighting the alleged incidents and calling for action to address violence against women, even among elected officials.
According to Charles, the incidents of domestic violence took place in the presence of the deputy governor’s staff and friends, raising concerns about the behavior of elected officers in the country.
The group expressed its dismay over the severity of the alleged assaults and the attempts made to cover up the incidents.
The statement released by SWE emphasized the importance of public officials upholding moral standards and serving as role models for society.
It also revealed that the deputy governor’s wife had reportedly fled to the United Kingdom to ensure her safety. SWE strongly condemned the deputy governor’s actions, expressing disappointment and calling for an investigation into the matter.
The group has urged the First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development to intervene and thoroughly investigate the disturbing incident.
SWE has given the deputy governor a seven-day ultimatum to apologize publicly to his wife and take responsibility for his alleged actions.
Failure to do so, the group warned, would result in significant consequences.
In response to the allegations, Kenneth Odusola, the Chief Press Secretary to the deputy governor, dismissed the matter as a family issue that should not be publicized.
He declined to comment on the allegations, stating that he was not involved in family matters and did not have information on any domestic violence incidents.
This accusation against the Ondo State deputy governor highlights the urgency to address violence against women, even among those in positions of power.
It remains to be seen how the authorities and relevant stakeholders will respond to these allegations and ensure justice is served.
