Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said on Thursday that maintaining the smooth operation of government during an election year was the primary factor in his decision to dissolve the State Executive Council or SEC.
Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the resignation of the cabinet members and a few other political appointments resulted from the people’s desires and the necessity to revitalize the administration.
The governor abolished the SEC on January 24, a move that sparked criticism from those in the state’s political community who claimed he should have waited until after the burial of his late boss, former governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
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.
