Why I Sacked Ondo State Commissioners, SAs, SSAs — Aiyedatiwa
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday said he dissolved the State Executive Council in response to the yearnings and aspirations of the people as well as the need to rejuvenate and reinvigorate the present administration for maximum delivery on his mandate.
Aiyedatiwa, who said this while addressing the gathering during the swearing-in ceremony of the new deputy governor, Olayide Owolabi Adelami, held at the International Conference Centre, (The Dome) in Akure, the Ondo state capital, expressed confidence in the ability of Adelami to contribute meaningfully to the state’s progress.
Recall that Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday, 24th January, 2024 dissolved the State Executive Council.
According to him, “we also needed to minimize unnecessary distractions usually associated with cabinet members and other appointees in an election year like we have in Ondo State. This is the standard practice in sane climes. It is important for government to be less encumbered by politicking and pave way for interested individuals to pursue their aspirations while simultaneously guaranteeing continued enjoyment of good governance to our people in the Sunshine State.
“We have a sacred duty to our people not to sacrifice good governance on the altar of individual, though legitimate, pursuit of political aspirations. We harbor neither ill-wind nor animosity towards no one.
Aiyedatiwa, who praised the sterling credentials of the new deputy governor, described him as a seasoned technocrat, administrator, and philanthropist.
He said; “the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Owolabi Adelami, mni, is a seasoned technocrat, administrator, philanthropist, and politician who had served the nation creditably at various levels, including serving as Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, before his eventual retirement.
“He is an urbane gentleman who had paid his dues in the service and development of Ondo State, and the nation at large. I have no doubt that finding himself again in a familiar terrain he will serve with integrity, devotion, loyalty, and accountability.
“We expect that you will provide fresh ideas and new drive to support this administration in consolidating our legacy projects, building a sustainable socio-economic base as encapsulated in our REDEEMED agenda; and pilot the politics of the state to a higher level of humility, justice and harmony as you serve the citizens.
“We expect you to demonstrate transparent, open, and accountable leadership in your new office. You must also avoid discrimination as you have the entire State as your constituency, rather than serving sectional interests.”
But in his acceptance speech, the new deputy governor, Olayide Owolabi Adelami, appreciated the state governor for allowing him to serve the state and promised to be loyal to him 100 per cent.
Adelami said; “To the good people of Ondo State, I’m here to join hands with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to serve you and ensure that lives are made more meaningful for you in all facets.
“To our good people of Ondo State, by the Grace of God Almighty who in His Will, arranged this day to come, we will not let you down.”
Adelami was sworn in by the Chief Judge of the State, Justice Olusegun Odusola.
