Ìgbàlaye Enikaselu, Pèlé Ooo!
By Allen Sowore, Esq.
A group of frustrated contractors and desperate politicians, masquerading as “Ilaje Youths,” have launched baseless media attacks against the Ondo State Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Isaac Omowumi. Their frustration is understandable—gone are the days of business as usual. Financial transactions in the state now strictly adhere to governance financial rules and procurement regulations.
Ordinarily, I wouldn’t waste time on barroom gossip and unfounded allegations—lies that will inevitably crumble like a house of cards. However, it is necessary to address the ignorant claims made against a dedicated public servant.
The accusation that the Finance Commissioner unduly influences the governor’s decisions is not only false but also mischievous and baseless. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is a rare leader who prioritizes merit and independence in decision-making, particularly in appointments.
A clear example is his reappointment of the Amotekun Corps Commandant, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, despite numerous chauvinistic pressures.
His courage was further evident in the appointments of Mr. Bayo Philip as Head of Service, Prince Segun Omojuwa as Chief of Staff, Mr. O. Orisabinone as Accountant General, and Mr. Adebayo Olorunwa Rojugbokan as Chairman of the State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS)—all distinguished sons of Ilaje. At no point was he accused of being influenced by the Owo-born Finance Commissioner.
Similarly, Governor Aiyedatiwa inherited and has retained the appointments of the Chief Judge Hon. Justice Olusegun Odusola, the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, Prince Ajose Kudehinbu and Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Akinruntan Abayomi.
Renowned author and playwright Ola Rotimi, in his classic play The Gods Are Not to Blame, remarked:
“A chicken eats corn, drinks water, swallows pebbles, yet complains of having no teeth. If she had teeth, would she eat gold? Let her ask the cow, who has teeth yet eats grass.”
So why is the Finance Commissioner’s appointment now being framed as the greatest challenge facing this administration?
The truth is, Ilaje sons and daughters should be grateful for the unprecedented opportunities they now enjoy under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership. Never in the state’s history has Ilaje had it this good. Given that only 12 individuals will govern the state in a century (assuming each serves two full terms), this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that must be protected and cherished.
Regarding the appointment of Engr. Olawoye Ayorinde Abiola, FNSE, as the new Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, it is unsurprising that certain contractors and politicians feel aggrieved. Some are accustomed to cutting corners, while others believe these positions are their birthright. However, no governor should be prevented from appointing individuals based on merit and dedication to service.
Furthermore, recruitment into the state civil service is ongoing. Just last week, over 60 Administrative Officers were hired. The lists of successful candidates for teaching at both the primary and secondary public schools will also be released soon.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s approach to appointments has always been inclusive. He consults critical stakeholders and leaders across all the 18 LGs & 203 wards before making constituency-related decisions. The notion that one individual will solely determines all state appointments is nothing but a fabrication and an act of blackmail.
To those peddling the absurd claim that the Commissioner for Finance is the sole occupant of the VIP lodge, I challenge you—meet me there today. Let’s conduct a headcount and settle this ridiculous falsehood once and for all.
To the Political Marauders: E Pèlé Ooo!
Since these political desperados have chosen to launch their attacks from a place of clannish sentiment, it is only fitting to respond in a language they understand. In Yoruba, Pèlé Ooo! carries both sympathy and sarcasm.
E Pèlé Ooo! Gbogbo èyin Ìgbàlaye Enikaselu—we see your handiwork!
We are not blind to your schemes, your desperate tactics, or your network of deception. But Governor Aiyedatiwa remains focused on delivering inclusive governance and improving the lives of all citizens.
We also know those who cowardly hide under the pseudonym ” Ìgbàlaye Enikaselu”. Their day of reckoning is near!
Allen Sowore, Esq.
SSA to the Governor on Strategic Communication
February 4, 2025
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