Ikale Elites Petition Gov. Aiyedatiwa Over Alleged Political Interference by Aide
By The The The People’s Voice Nigeria News
A group identified as “Concerned Ikale Elites” has issued an open letter to Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, raising concerns over the alleged conduct of the state’s Chief of Protocol, Mr. Abayomi Olasanya.
In the letter, signed by Ajanaku Oluwaduyilemi Joshua on behalf of the group, the petitioners accused the official of making statements suggesting he has the authority to determine who represents the Ikale people politically.
The group described the alleged remarks as inconsistent with democratic principles, stressing that political representation remains the exclusive right of the people.
“To suggest that an appointed aide can decide political representation for Ikaleland is unacceptable and undermines the intelligence and political rights of our people,” the letter stated.
The petitioners further expressed concern that such claims, if true, could create the impression that unelected officials wield undue influence within the state government.
They urged the governor to clarify the boundaries of the Chief of Protocol’s role, noting that the position is traditionally administrative and not political.
The letter also highlighted the political history of Ikaleland, referencing notable figures such as former Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Agagu, to underscore the community’s long-standing involvement in democratic governance.
Additionally, the group warned that the situation could strain the relationship between Ikale and Ilaje communities if not addressed promptly.
The petitioners called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to direct the Chief of Protocol to refrain from involvement in political matters relating to Ikaleland and to focus strictly on his official duties.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Ondo State Government or the Chief of Protocol regarding the allegations.
FULL TEXT OF THE OPEN LETTER
OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY, GOVERNOR LUCKY ORIMISAN AIYEDATIWA
RE: CONDUCT OF THE CHIEF OF PROTOCOL
Your Excellency,
The Ikale people, both at home and in the diaspora, write with deep honour for your office and concern for the peace of our state. We respectfully urge you to address the conduct of your Chief of Protocol, Mr. Abayomi Olasanya, and to reaffirm clear boundaries regarding his official duties.
Mr. Olasanya has been reportedly making public assertions that he will determine who represents the Ikale people, and that no leader from Ikaleland can alter his decision. Such statements, if accurate, are inconsistent with the dignity of your office and the democratic values of Ondo State.
The Ikales are politically mature and experienced. For decades we have exercised our right to freely choose representatives at all levels of government. Ikaleland has produced distinguished leaders and statesmen who served with honour, including the late Olu Akinfosile; late Olu Jones Omokuwajo; former Governor and Minister Olusegun Agagu; Vice Admiral Akin Aduwo; Major General Olu Bajowa; late Senator M.A.E. Onukun; Senator Jimoh Ibrahim; and late Hon. Olu Atiroko, Speaker in the Second Republic. This record reflects our capacity to lead and to select leaders without external imposition.
To suggest that an appointed aide can decide political representation for Ikaleland is unacceptable and undermines the intelligence and political rights of our people. More concerning is that it creates the damaging impression that the Governor could be unduly influenced by unelected officials. We are confident that impression does not reflect your leadership, and it should be corrected without delay.
The role of Chief of Protocol is administrative, not political. Involvement in local political decisions exceeds that mandate and risks avoidable tension. We are particularly concerned about the potential strain on the historic, peaceful relationship between the Ikale and Ilaje communities; two sister peoples bound by shared history. The late Governor Olusegun Agagu remains a symbol of that enduring friendship. No aide should jeopardize it.
Your Excellency, we therefore respectfully request decisive action. We ask that the Chief of Protocol be formally directed to refrain from all political matters concerning Ikaleland and to focus strictly on his official duties. Timely intervention will preserve public confidence and protect the harmony that Ondo State is known for.
The Ikale people remain committed to supporting your administration. We will continue to choose our representatives freely, democratically, and without interference, as we have always done.
Respectfully,
E-signed
AJANAKU OLUWADUYILEMI JOSHUA
Tel: 07037977546
For and On behalf of Concerned Ikale Elites (Home and in the Diaspora)
