Ondo Assembly Begins Screening of Commissioner Nominees
By Awodeyi Elizabeth
The Ondo State House of Assembly on Thursday commenced the screening exercise for Commissioner-nominees forwarded by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, with four out of the twelve nominees appearing before the Committee of the Whole House.
The process followed Tuesday’s plenary session where the House received the nomination letter from the Governor and committed it to the committee stage under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji. The screening, according to the Speaker, is scheduled to run from Thursday, June 19 through Monday, June 23, 2025.
Those screened on the first day include Hon Sunday Olajide, Amidu Takuro, Olaolu Akindolire, and Professor Igbekele Ajibefun.
In separate interviews following the exercise, the nominees expressed satisfaction with the process and commended the lawmakers for their professionalism and diligence.
Speaking to journalists, a former Lawmaker, Hon Sunday Olajide described the relationship between the Legislature and the Executive as symbiotic, stating that although some of the lawmakers already know him, the screening provided an opportunity for proper scrutiny and reintroduction.
“It’s not about familiarity. They had to go through due diligence. Some members were not in the House when I served. This gave me the opportunity to present myself again and share my vision,” Olajide said.
He also pledged to act as a bridge between both arms of government, promising a more cordial and understanding relationship going forward.
Alhaji Amidu Takuro who is a former Commissioner in the State noted that although he is yet to know the specific ministry he will serve in, he is prepared to give his best wherever he is assigned.
“The aim is to ensure the overall betterment of Ondo State. The legislators have been fantastic and very professional. I’m confident that I will make my Governor and the people proud,” he stated.
Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, a former Rector of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic and former Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, said his prior leadership roles in public service have prepared him for the new assignment.
“The screening process was very thorough and transparent. If confirmed, I’ll bring in fresh energy and ideas, and I am committed to delivering 100%,” he said.
On his part, a former Commissioner Mr. Olaolu Akindolire described the screening as detailed and transparent, praising the Speaker and members of the House for the orderly conduct.
“We discussed at length during the session. I’m confident that if given the opportunity, l will deliver good governance to the people of Ondo State,” Akindolire said.
The screening exercise continues with the remaining nominees expected to appear before the Assembly in the coming days.
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