Prominent politicians from Akoko area in Ondo State are gunning for the job of the embattled Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, it was learnt yesterday.
Olanusi, who hails from Supare-Akoko, is facing impeachment, following his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The House of Assembly on Wednesday directed the Chief Judge, Justice Olaseinde Kumuyi, to set up a seven-man committee to investigate allegations against Olanusi.
It was gathered that some top PDP stalwarts, especially from Akoko land, have been named for the job.
Among the contenders are former Special Adviser to the Governor on Planning and Strategy Saka Lawal; Senator Bode Olajumoke; G.B Lawani and Dr Olu Agunloye.
Lawal and Agunloye were governorship aspirants of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), who defected to the PDP.
Olajumoke was the defeated PDP senatorial candidate for Ondo North on March 28.
Lawani is a top government official in the Local Government Service Commission.
The four likely contenders control a large number of followers.
It was learnt that the PDP would soon meet to make a decision on who to succeed Olanusi, if he is eventually impeached.
Sources said some PDP chieftains from Supare-Akoko are also working to ensure that their kinsman is considered for the position.
Theysaid politicians were lobbying Governor Olusegun Mimiko through their rulers and party chieftains.
The deputy governor is said to be out of the state for medical treatment.