Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has dissolved the entire State Executive Council with immediate effect, sparing only two top officials: the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac. According to a statement on Wednesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, their exemption is due to the “critical nature” of their duties.
This unexpected decision has stirred up reactions across Ondo State’s political scene, as many believe it is a calculated strategy to consolidate power and reshape Aiyedatiwa’s administration ahead of the upcoming political season. The governor did not hesitate in his directive, ordering all dismissed cabinet members to hand over government property to their respective accounting officers without delay.
“The Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the dissolution of the State Executive Council, with immediate effect,” the statement declared. “However, the Governor has exempted two members of the cabinet from the dissolution due to the critical nature of their duties. They are the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac.”
Political observers are not surprised by the selective retention of these two officials. The Justice and Finance positions are essential for controlling legal and financial matters, making them vital for any leader aiming to tighten their grip on power. However, Nigerians believe that this mass dismissal could disrupt ongoing development projects and expose the state to political instability.
As Aiyedatiwa prepares to rebuild his cabinet, many wonder about his next move. Will he fill the vacant positions with loyalists to strengthen his hold on Ondo State, or will he prioritize competence and experience to drive development?
