A fresh wave of controversy has hit the Ondo State Governor’s Office following a power tussle between two political appointees over control of an official office space, raising concerns about internal discipline and unity within the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
On February 24, 2025, the Governor appointed Comrade Surveyor Bola Taiwo as the Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties.Upon assumption of office, Comrade Taiwo was allocated an official office which he personally renovated and furnished to suit his needs, ensuring a comfortable and functional work environment.
However, months later, the Governor also appointed Hon. Gani Mohamed Ajowa as Special Adviser on Special Duties and Strategy.
Shortly after his appointment, Hon. Gani reportedly laid claim to the same office, insisting it belonged to him during the previous administration and should be returned to him.
The matter escalated dramatically when Hon. Gani allegedly visited the office complex on a Saturday, an unofficial working day, and forcibly broke into the space, effectively evicting Comrade Bola Taiwo without prior notice or administrative directive.
The development, which has since drawn the attention of top government officials, has left the office under lock and key, stalling operations and causing disruptions within that arm of government.
Sources within the Governor’s Office described the situation as “embarrassing and unnecessary,” especially given the already delicate political atmosphere in the state.
Reacting to the controversy, the Ondo Solidarity Forum (OSF), a socio-political group, through its National coordinator Prince Obadofin Ademola, strongly condemned the actions of Hon. Gani Mohamed Ajowa, describing his conduct as “a show of impunity and lack of respect for constituted authority.”
In a statement issued on Monday, the OSF called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to “call Gani Mohamed to order” and restore discipline within the government house.
The group noted that “no individual, regardless of their past influence, should override official protocol or create tension within a system built on structure and hierarchy.”
According to credible insider reports, a discreet investigation has been conducted within the corridors of power. Top sources allege that Hon. Gani Mohamed Ajowa is working at cross-purposes with the administration and may be undermining the progress of the Ayedatiwa-led government.
As of press time, no official statement has been released by the office of the Governor, but insiders say Governor Aiyedatiwa is aware of the situation and may soon take decisive steps to resolve the matter.
Political observers note that such internal wrangling, if not swiftly addressed, could undermine the cohesion of the Governor’s team as the administration begin to gather steam.
