In the aftermath of the untimely death of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State on Wednesday, a wave of resignations has swept through the ranks of his aides. At least five key members of Akeredolu’s administration have tendered their resignations in the wake of the tragedy of Akeredolu’s death.
Akeredolu’s deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, was swiftly sworn in as the new governor following the announcement of Akeredolu’s demise. However, this transition has not been smooth, as some close associates of the late governor have chosen to step down from their positions.
The list of resignations includes Richard Olatunde, the Chief Press Secretary to Akeredolu, as well as Dare Aragbaye, the Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties. Others who have submitted their resignations are 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.
Sources indicate that the resignations stem from the aides’ reluctance to work with the newly sworn-in Governor Aiyedatiwa. Loyalty to the late Akeredolu has been cited as a common reason for the sudden departure of these key officials.
In his resignation letter, Commissioner Aminu Raimi expressed his decision as being dictated by conscience, stating, “This decision is anchored on my conscience, as my leader and dear boss, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON joined the Saint Triumphant.”
Senior Special Assistant Doyin Odebowale echoed similar sentiments, saying, “I write to notify your office of my intention to resign my appointment as the Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties and Strategy to the Governor of Ondo State with immediate effect.”
Despite the unfolding resignations, concerns have been raised about potential political upheaval and victimization in the wake of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s assumption of office. An anonymous source mentioned that some aides resigned out of fear of being victimized, although this claim remains unverified.
Meanwhile, Governor Aiyedatiwa is reportedly searching for a deputy governor and has been holding consultations with political stakeholders within and outside the state. Potential candidates include Chief Olugbenga Ale, Chief of Staff to the former governor, and Razak Obe, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources.
As the political landscape in Ondo State undergoes significant shifts, the public remains attentive to developments surrounding the resignations and the selection of a new deputy governor.