Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State disclosed on Thursday that his decision to dissolve the State Executive Council, SEC, was hinged on the need to ensure the smooth running of government during the election year.
Aiyedatiwa emphasised that the yearnings of the people as well as the need to rejuvenate the administration led to the sacking of the cabinet members and some other political appointees.
On January 24, the governor dissolved the SEC, a development that raised eyebrows within the state’s political quarters with the arguments that he ought to have tarried till when the remains of his late boss, former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, will be interred.
Aiyedatiwa disclosed this during the inauguration of his deputy, Olayide Adelami, at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome.
While stressing that the move was made in good faith, he stated: “We also needed to minimise unnecessary distractions usually associated with cabinet members and other appointees in an election year like we have in Ondo State.”
He maintained that it is important for the government to be less encumbered by politics and also paved the way for those interested in pursuing their aspirations.
“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 harbour neither ill-will nor animosity towards anyone. In accordance with our desire to serve the people better, we are bringing on board a gentleman of stellar quality, impeccable character, and rich administrative acumen as Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Owolabi Adelami,” he said.
