The Senior Special Assistant on Community Engagement (North) to Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Bode Obanla, has resigned from his position, sparking speculation of growing unease within the state government.
Obanla’s resignation, which comes just a day after the swearing-in of 16 new commissioners, has stirred political debate over possible internal tensions in the administration. In a letter dated July 16 and addressed to the governor, the former aide cited a desire to focus on personal business interests.
“I have handed over all government properties in my care, particularly the Hilux van attached to my office, back to the government,” he wrote, noting that the items were returned through the office of the SSA on Community Engagement (Central).
Obanla thanked the governor for the opportunity to serve and expressed hope that his contributions, particularly on development priorities for Ondo North, would inform future decisions.
However, insiders say Obanla’s resignation may be symptomatic of deeper political grievances within the ruling party in the state.
Sources familiar with the matter allege that the resignation was triggered by growing frustration among some party members who feel sidelined in the current administration.
“The governor is making appointments without broad consultation. Key party leaders, especially at the grassroots level, feel neglected,” one source said, adding that Obanla had grown increasingly uncomfortable with what was described as Aiyedatiwa’s “one-man show” leadership style.
The source warned that if the trend continues, more resignations may follow, urging the governor to engage more deliberately with party stakeholders to preserve internal cohesion.