Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu is on medical leave and has handed over the affairs of Ondo state to his deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The Ondo State House of Assembly confirmed the development on Tuesday.

The Speaker of the Assembly, Mr Olamide Oladiji, confirmed receipt of a letter for medical leave from Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

Oladiji explained that the governor asked for 21-day leave for medical treatment abroad starting from June 7 to July 6.

The speaker said the leave will be extended to July 6 due to the public holidays on June 12(Democracy Day) and Eid el Kabir on June 28 and June 29.

He explained that the governor had stated in the letter that his deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, would act as acting governor for the period he will be away.

The speaker, who described the governor as a lover of peace and an apostle of rule of law, wished him speedy recovery and joyful vacation.

Akeredolu has been battling ill-health for many months, making him to spend a long time out of work.

Last week, a rumour about his death was debunked by his wife, Betty.