The Deputy Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Abayomi Akinruntan, has resigned from his position. In a similar development, the Majority Leader, Hon. Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, has also stepped down.
Sources informed NEWS REVIEW that the leadership changes were made in line with the state’s unwritten political zoning arrangement. Hon. Akinruntan and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa are both from Ilaje Local Government Area, while the former Majority Leader, Hon. Ogunmolasuyi, hails from Owo. The same LGA as the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami.
In his resignation letter, read by the Clerk of the House, Mr. Benjamin Jayeiola, Akinruntan stated his decision was to reflect the conventional power-sharing formula in the state. He said: “I hereby tender my resignation from the office of the Deputy Speaker effective from today, 2nd June, 2025. Recall that the House was inaugurated in June 2023, and I was unanimously elected as Deputy Speaker as stipulated in our standing order.
My resignation is borne out of the need to align with the conventional arrangement in power-sharing of elective positions in the state. I want to appreciate all members and staff for their contributions and support.”
While Akinruntan was absent during the plenary session, Ogunmolasuyi was present but did not publicly state his reason for stepping down.
Following Akinruntan’s resignation, Hon. Ololade Gbegude (Okitipupa Constituency 2) was nominated by Hon. Oluwatoyin Japheth (Akoko North-East) and seconded by Hon. Chris Ayebusiwa (Okitipupa Constituency 1). Gbegude was sworn in immediately and pledged to serve with diligence and commitment.
Additionally, Hon. Muritala Sulaiman (Akoko South-East) was appointed Chief Whip, while Hon. Fabiyi Olatunji (Odigbo Constituency 1) was named Whip of the House.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, praised the outgoing leaders for their maturity and peaceful conduct.
“Akinruntan has been a peaceful ally and has supported the House. I appreciate his maturity in ensuring a smooth transition,” he said. “The same goes for Hon. Ogunmolasuyi, who has been a stabilising force in the House and a dependable ally,” Oladiji added.
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