Ondo Governor moves to sideline ex-appointees in bid to assemble a result-driven, inclusive team
AKURE — As Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa gears up to announce his long-awaited cabinet, anxiety and uncertainty have gripped former members of the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s administration.
Despite their public show of loyalty and political reactivation, strong signals from the Government House suggest that a major shake-up is underway—and the old guard may be left behind.
Since clinching the APC governorship ticket ahead of the November 2024 governorship election, Aiyedatiwa has intensified consultations aimed at forming a cabinet that aligns with his personal vision for governance—one that prioritizes competence, innovation, and grassroots impact.
Old Faces, Slim Chances
Sources close to the Governor revealed that he is not inclined to reappoint many of Akeredolu’s former cabinet members, regardless of their recent efforts to maintain visibility through party events and strategic meetings.
“His Excellency is focused on building a new team that truly reflects his agenda,” a senior aide disclosed. “The era of political entitlement is over. It’s about who can deliver.”
Technocrats, Fresh Blood to Take Center Stage
According to insiders, the Governor’s cabinet list will feature a healthy mix of technocrats, political mobilisers, and trusted allies with strong performance records.
Gender balance, youth inclusion, and equitable representation across the state’s three senatorial zones are also guiding factors in the selection process.
“The cabinet will be different from what we’ve seen before,” the aide noted. “Competence and loyalty to the Aiyedatiwa vision—not past affiliations—will be the main criteria.”
Lobbying Heats Up as Political Stakes Rise
Despite the Governor’s clear direction, former appointees from the Akeredolu era have intensified lobbying through traditional rulers, religious leaders, and APC elders in a desperate attempt to return to office.
Meanwhile, loyalists who played key roles in Aiyedatiwa’s primary victory—including youth groups, women coalitions, and community influencers—are demanding recognition in the new power arrangement.
Party Power Brokers, Federal Bigwigs Push for Slots
Top APC leaders such as Ambassador Sola Iji, Senator Ajayi Boroffice, and federal ministers Dr. Tunji Alausa and Prince Ademola Adegoroye are also reportedly seeking to influence the final cabinet list through nominations and strategic alliances.
Equally influential is the current Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowumi Isaac, who is said to have the Governor’s ear and may play a key role in the final decisions.
A Cabinet That Could Make or Break the APC
With opposition parties watching closely and internal party unity on the line, the upcoming cabinet is seen as a critical test for the APC’s cohesion and the Governor’s leadership.
“Aiyedatiwa knows he can’t afford political baggage,” a party insider stated. “He needs a team that will work—not one stuck in the past.”
All Eyes on the Unveiling
As anticipation builds across Ondo State, the Governor’s cabinet announcement is expected to send a strong signal about the future direction of his administration—and the fate of those who once held sway under Akeredolu.
