Ondo Deputy Speaker, Majority Leader Resign Amid Power-Sharing Realignment

Ondo State House of Assembly, Deputy Speaker Abayomi Akinruntan and Majority Leader Oluwole Emmanuel Ogunmolasuyi have formally resigned their positions, citing the need to maintain the state’s conventional political power-sharing balance.

Akinruntan, who represents Ilaje Constituency 1, stepped down in a letter presented during Tuesday’s plenary session. In his resignation note, he said the decision was taken “to align with the conventional arrangement in power sharing of elective positions in the state.”

“I hereby tender my resignation from the office of the Deputy Speaker effective from today, 2nd June, 2025. I want to appreciate all members and staff for their contributions and support,” Akinruntan wrote.

His replacement, Hon. Ololade Gbegudu from Okitipupa Constituency 2, was nominated by Oluwatoyin Japheth (Akoko North East) and seconded by Chris Ayebusiwa (Okitipupa Constituency 1). Gbegudu’s nomination was unopposed and he was sworn in immediately.

Similarly, Ogunmolasuyi, who represents Owo Constituency 1, relinquished his role as Majority Leader. Hon. Olatunji Oshati from Ose Constituency was announced as his successor.

Further appointments saw Hon. Muritala Sulaiman (Akoko South East) named Chief Whip and Hon. Fabiyi Olatunji (Odigbo Constituency 1) appointed as the Whip of the Assembly.

Speaker Olamide Oladiji lauded the outgoing officers for their maturity and service, describing Akinruntan as a “peaceful ally” and Ogunmolasuyi as “a stabilizer in the House.”

Political observers believe the shake-up was a strategic move to address zoning sensitivities, given that both Akinruntan and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa hail from Ilaje LGA, while Ogunmolasuyi and Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami are from Owo LGA — a scenario perceived as politically imbalanced.