AKURE, ONDO STATE – In a significant political maneuver aimed at upholding regional balance, Abayomi Akinruntan, the Deputy Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, has tendered his resignation. This Akinruntan resignation is a direct nod to the state’s long-standing tradition of political zoning. Akinruntan, who represents Ilaje Constituency 1 and is the son of notable monarch Oba Fredrick Akinruntan, made his exit official.
The Clerk of the House, Benjamin Jayeiola, read Akinruntan’s resignation letter aloud during a plenary session on June 2, 2025. Though absent from the session himself, Akinruntan’s letter explained his reasoning: “My resignation is borne out of the need to align with the conventional arrangement in power sharing of elective positions in the state.” He expressed gratitude for the support during his tenure, which began in June 2023. His decision is seen as a move to avoid concentrating political power, especially since both he and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa hail from the same Ilaje Local Council. The Akinruntan resignation is therefore a key step in this re-balancing act.
New Faces Rise After Akinruntan Resignation Shakes Up House
The House acted swiftly following the Akinruntan resignation. Ololade Gbegude, representing Okitipupa Constituency 2, was nominated and confirmed as the new Deputy Speaker. The nomination came from Oluwatoyin Japheth of Akoko North East and was seconded by Chris Ayebusiwa of Okitipupa Constituency 1. Gbegude’s confirmation was unopposed, and he was promptly sworn in, pledging his full commitment to his new duties. “I will serve with diligence and uphold the integrity of this House,” he affirmed.
The leadership shuffle didn’t stop there. Olatunji Oshati from Ose Constituency took over as Majority Leader, replacing Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi. Muritala Sulaiman of Akoko South East is the new Chief Whip, and Fabiyi Olatunji from Odigbo Constituency 1 was appointed as the new Whip.
Speaker Lauds Peaceful Power Shift
Speaker Olamide Oladiji offered praise for the outgoing officers. He highlighted their cooperation and the remarkably peaceful nature of this significant transition. “The same thing goes for the former majority leader. He has been a stabiliser in the House and also a good and dependable ally,” Oladiji remarked, commending the maturity displayed by all involved during the reshuffle.
These leadership adjustments are widely interpreted as a deliberate internal realignment. The core aim is to maintain political equity within the state’s power structure, particularly considering that the former Majority Leader and the current Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami, both originate from Owo Local Council. The Assembly’s decisive actions underscore a dedication to inclusive governance and balanced representation for all parts of Ondo State.
By Abiodun Labi
