Doyin Odebowale, the former Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties and Strategy to the late Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has elucidated on his decision to resign following the demise of the governor. Odebowale explained on Saturday that his resignation stemmed from his inability to replicate the same commitment he had with Akeredolu.
Odebowale, alongside other aides, including the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Aminu Raimi; the Special Assistant on Photography to the former governor, Olawale Abolade; Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Dare Aragbaye; and the Chief Press Secretary to the former Governor, Richard Olatunde, resigned after Akeredolu’s passing in Germany.
The former aide affirmed his unwavering support for the late governor, highlighting their over 30 years of collaboration. Odebowale disclosed that he played a pivotal role in convincing Akeredolu to contest the governorship in 2018, leading to his appointment as a special adviser.
While expressing loyalty to the late governor, Odebowale clarified that he harbors no issues with the newly-sworn-in governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. He cited personal reasons for his decision, emphasizing that his commitment couldn’t be replicated in the absence of the person who brought him into office.
Responding to an allegation of assault against a pregnant woman, Odebowale dismissed it as fabricated, stating that he would never engage in such behavior. He asserted that the accusation was driven by jealousy from those who perceived him as too powerful.
Odebowale stated, “I have nothing left to do in the office when the person who brought me there is no longer there. I can’t remain in that space and pretend. I can’t be as committed as I was with Akeredolu because I got all his support. It was not politicking. He gave me the wings to fly. He was my brother like a family.”
Regarding the assault allegation, he refuted the incident, explaining the circumstances surrounding the reported incident, and emphasized that it was a fabricated story orchestrated by individuals who sought to undermine his influence.