Gov. Akeredolu sacks aide

By Ayodele Oni, Akure

Fact has emerged on why Ondo state Governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, sacked one of his Aides on Monday.

Until he was relieved of his appointment via a statement by the commissioner for information, Mr Donald Ojogo, the Aide, Mr Augustine Pelemo was a special assistant to the governor on political matters, attached to the deputy governor.

A statement by the commissioner for information stated that “the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, has directed that Mr Augustine Pelemo ceases to function forthwith, as Special Assistant on Political Matters to the Governor.

“This directive is with immediate effect; and it underscores the need to instill sanity and nip in the bud, divisive acts and tendencies inimical to the existing cordiality and cohesion in the administration led by the Governor.

“While wishing him well in his future endeavours, Mr Governor further directs Pelemo to hand over every government property in his possession to the Deputy Chief of Staff without further  delay.”

Ads

However, it was learnt that Pelemo was relieved of his appointment for referring to the wife of the deputy governor as acting first lady during a social event.

Reacting to the sack, the deputy chief press secretary in the office of the deputy governor, Mr Tope Okeowo, on behalf of his boss, explained that since it was the governor that appointed him, he has absolute right to disengage him.

“The Deputy Governor, Hon Agboola Ajayi is aware of the sack of Mr Austin Pelemo; the Special Assistant (SA) to the Governor on Political Matters attached to the Deputy Governor ‘s office by the state government

“The Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN who has the power to hire all his aides including that of his Deputy,  also has the power to sack them. That of Pelemo is not an exception.

“Hon Ajayi wishes Pelemo well in his future political and other endeavours,” the statement added.