Ondo APC chieftain declines appointment as gov’s aide

Falana Oyewole, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Okitipupa Local Government in Ondo State, has rejected an appointment as Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The decision, announced in a letter dated September 22, 2026, was prompted by Oyewole's concerns over the marginalization of the Erinje community in the distribution of political positions.

In his letter, addressed to the governor through the Secretary to the State Government, Oyewole expressed gratitude for the offer but stated that extensive consultations with his family and political leaders in Ode-Erinje led him to decline the position. He emphasized that the decision was influenced by the perception of Erinje's exclusion from strategic roles under Aiyedatiwa's administration.

Oyewole highlighted the community's deep sense of neglect, noting that Erinje has not been considered for any strategic political appointments since the administration's start. Despite acknowledging the appreciation for the offer, Oyewole contended that the position was insufficient, given Erinje's significant support for the governor and the ruling party.

He urged the governor to reconsider the distribution of political offices in Erinje, advocating for the appointment of a local resident to a more substantial cabinet position.