Governor Aiyedatiwa Dissolves Ondo State Executive Council: A Transition Marred by Crisis



In a surprising move, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has dissolved the State Executive Council, relieving all Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants of their duties. The decision, communicated through a statement by Chief Press Secretary Ebenezer Adeniyan, is set to take immediate effect.

This move comes on the heels of Governor Aiyedatiwa's recent inauguration on December 27, 2023, following the demise of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who passed away while undergoing treatment for prostate cancer in Germany. The transition from Akeredolu to Aiyedatiwa has been marked by political turmoil and internal conflicts within the state assembly and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Before his death, Akeredolu had transferred power to Aiyedatiwa via a letter to the state House of Assembly on December 13, 2023, when he proceeded on medical leave. However, this followed a period of uncertainty, where Akeredolu's failure to hand over to his deputy upon his return from Germany in September led to a crisis.

President Tinubu's intervention played a crucial role in resolving the crisis, culminating in Aiyedatiwa assuming the role of acting governor. The impeachment process against the deputy governor and subsequent resignations by key aides, including the Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Dare Aragbaye, and Chief Press Secretary Richard Olatunde, added to the political turbulence.

Aragbaye and Olatunde's resignation letters cited the demise of Governor Akeredolu as the reason for their departure, highlighting the loyalty and respect they held for the late leader. Aragbaye served as the Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, while Olatunde held the position of Chief Press Secretary. Their departure signified a deep emotional toll on the administration, reflecting the loss of a "fearless and honest leader" and a "father figure."

Governor Aiyedatiwa's decision to dissolve the State Executive Council and relieve senior aides of their duties raises questions about the stability of the administration. The directive for officials to hand over government properties promptly adds to the urgency and suggests a swift reorganization process may be underway.

As the newly sworn-in governor takes charge, the focus will now be on the appointments and composition of the new executive team. The resolution of internal conflicts and the effective management of the transition will be critical to stabilizing the political landscape in Ondo State, allowing for a smooth governance transition amidst challenging circumstances.

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