There is a new twist to the quarrel between the Executive Governor of Osun State Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola and his predecessor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, investigation conducted by highstreet.ng has shown.
Highstreet.ng understands political appointees across government ministries in Osun state have started taking sides in the fight that has refused to subside.
According to information, the state commissioners as well other political appointees in the government of Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, are at the moment maintaining a “good” distance from the minister of interior Rauf Argbesola.
And this appeared to have better-positioned governor Oyetola in the raging political battle.
The reason for the new development is straight-forward, they don’t want to be caught on the wrong side of the two politicians’ enmity – and ultimately lose their jobs, a grounded source told highstreet.ng.
They are wary of a situation where they would be seen as appointees with divided loyalty, our source pointed out.
Findings revealed they adopted the approach when Mr Governor’s body language clearly tells he would not tolerate anything less than absolute loyalty in his administration.
Even those who were hitherto close to Minister Aregbesola – the man regarded as the “almighty power” in the scheme of things in Osun State before the turn of event – are said to be towing the same line.
“Its expected, they can’t do otherwise because they would not want to lose their position. Fine, certain interests are responsible for their nominations… one should also understand the governor has the power to do away with whoever he is not comfortable with”, a political source gave an insight.
“Look at it, for instance, the commissioner for works, Mr Oluremi Omowaye is Aregbesola’s alley when he was the governor… you would be surprised if I tell he has switched camp. He’s now governor Oyetola’s core loyalist, the source explained further.
Cracks appeared in Governor Oyetola and Rauf Aregbesola’s relationship when the former resisted attempt by the latter to make his son Kabiru Aregbesola Chief of Staff in his administration – and also determine appointments that would shape the direction of the new government.
Gboyega Oyetola also held the position of the Cheif of Staff to the governor during the eight years reign of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.
Interestingly, a recent bold decision by the incumbent to reverse education policies put in place by Mr Aregbesola’s administration has further shown their sour relationship is fast becoming irredeemable.
