New Deputy Speaker, Principal Officers vow commitment to ondo state development
By Awodeyi Elizabeth
The Ondo State House of Assembly witnessed a seamless transition of leadership on Tuesday as new principal officers were inaugurated in a peaceful and widely applauded reshuffling of roles.
The event, described by lawmakers in separate interviews as “a family affair,” reflected a unified legislative front committed to advancing the state’s development agenda.
Rt. Hon. Ololade Gbegudu, representing Okitipupa Constituency 2, who emerged as the new Deputy Speaker expressed gratitude to the Speaker, his fellow lawmakers, and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for the trust reposed in him.
“I appreciate our dear Speaker, members of the 10th Assembly, my family and every friend and loved one. I also specially appreciate the Governor of our dear state, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa,” he said.
Gbegudu emphasized his readiness to support the Speaker in steering the Assembly toward legislative productivity and economic growth.
“I know my onions, and I am in a position to assist the Speaker in steering the ship of the House to a positive note. I pledge to uphold integrity, truth, and to support the passage of life-fulfilling laws that will enrich and improve the state’s economy,” he added.
Hon. Olatunji Oshati, representing Ose Constituency,the new Majority Leader described the leadership change as necessary for senatorial balance and harmony.
“As we said on the floor, it’s a family affair done in the interest of the state. We appreciate our former leaders for resigning peacefully. The transition is seamless and we are at peace with ourselves. In unity, we can move mountains,” Oshati declared.
He assured the people of Ondo State of an improved legislative output, saying, “People will see an improved House by the grace of God.”
Hon. Suleiman Murtala Mohammed, representing Akoko South East, the new Chief Whip pledged to use his two years of legislative experience to enforce discipline and maintain order in the House.
“I’m here to maintain law and order. I will give my best. My experience over the past two years will be brought to bear in ensuring discipline within the House,” he stated.
Hon. Fabiyi Olatunji of Odigbo Constituency 2 was announced as the new Whip thanked the House leadership and Governor Aiyedatiwa for the opportunity.
“Though I’ve never been a principal officer before, I’ve chaired many committees. This new role is a challenge to do more. I’m loyal to authority, and I pray for synergy going forward,” Olatunji said.
Hon. Oluwatoyin Messiah Allen, representing Ese-Odo, named the new Deputy Parliamentary Secretary. Reflecting on the transition, commended the maturity of senior members who voluntarily stepped aside for new leaders to emerge.
“I wasn’t expecting a principal position, so this came as a surprise. I commend Rt. Hon. Prince Abayomi Akinruntan for his selfless act of stepping aside for equity and balance. That’s a testament to our unity,” Allen said.
He added, “This change will lead to development. New hands are coming in, and they must bring in positive changes to complement the efforts of their predecessors.”
The leadership change in the Ondo State House of Assembly has been described by insiders as a reflection of harmony, mutual respect, and a collective desire to move the state forward. The new principal officers have promised a renewed commitment to responsible lawmaking and stronger collaboration with the executive arm.
With the atmosphere of peace and unity prevailing in the Assembly, stakeholders are optimistic that the legislative arm is well-positioned to support policies and laws that will enhance governance and improve the lives of the people.
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