In a swift and unexpected turn of events, the political landscape of Ondo State has undergone significant upheaval following the demise of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. The inauguration of Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the new governor has been marked not only by the somber transition of leadership but also by the resignation of key aides and loyalists of the late governor.
Rotimi Akeredolu passed away on December 27, 2023, in Germany after a prolonged battle with cancer. Within hours of his demise, his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who had been serving in an acting capacity, was sworn in as the new leader of the state. However, the subsequent 24 hours witnessed the departure of five prominent figures from Akeredolu’s administration, a move that has sent shockwaves through the political corridors of Ondo State.
Among those who submitted their resignation letters are Richard Olatunde, the Chief Press Secretary to the former governor; Dare Aragbaye, the Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties; Aminu Raimi, the Commissioner for Infrastructure Lands and Housing; Olawale Abolade, the Special Assistant on Photography; and Dr. Doyin Odebowale, the Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties and Strategy.
Aminu Raimi, in his resignation letter, cited his decision as being anchored on conscience. “I write to tender my resignation of appointment as Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing with effect from today, 28 December 2023. This decision is anchored on my conscience, as my leader and dear boss, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, joined the Saint Triumphant.”
Raimi went on to express gratitude for the opportunity to serve in various capacities in Akeredolu’s cabinet, acknowledging the people of the state for their support.
In a similar vein, Olawale Abolade, the Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties and Strategy, conveyed his appreciation to Akeredolu and the people of the state for entrusting him with the responsibility to serve.
Amidst these resignations, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has wasted no time in addressing the vacuum left by the departing aides. Reports suggest that he has initiated the search for a suitable and loyal deputy to collaborate with in steering the affairs of the state.
Sources close to the governor reveal that Aiyedatiwa has engaged in extensive consultations with political stakeholders within and outside the state to identify a candidate who will complement his leadership style. The search is reportedly focused on individuals from either the northern or central senatorial districts of Ondo State.
Potential candidates for the deputy governor position include Olugbenga Ale, the Chief of Staff to the former governor, and Razak Obe, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources. The selection of a deputy governor will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of Aiyedatiwa’s administration and determine the stability of the political climate in Ondo State.
As the state grapples with these political developments, the coming days are poised to be critical in defining the future course of Ondo’s governance. The resignation of Akeredolu’s aides and the subsequent quest for a deputy mark a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape, prompting both anticipation and uncertainty among its citizens.
