Ekiti Governor Oyebanji seeks Assembly approval for three commissioners and ten advisers

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has formally asked the State House of Assembly to endorse the retention of three commissioners and the hiring of ten special advisers. On Monday, the governor sent a document to Assembly Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye, asking for the evaluation and validation of the proposed candidates. This move is part of the administration’s effort to constitute key components of its second-term government early on.

Olayinka Oyebode, the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, revealed on Tuesday that the petition involves retaining staff members who held positions during the executive's initial term. The specific nominees for commissioner roles are Mr Dayo Apata (SAN) for the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Akintunde Oyebode for the Commissioner for Finance, and Dr Oyebanji Filani for the Commissioner for Health and Human Services. Beyond these high-level posts, the chief executive also asked for permission to engage ten special consultants to support the routine management of the state government.

Background

Governor Oyebanji’s second-term administration was inaugurated on October 16. The current requests follow earlier appointments approved by the governor last week, which included positions in the power, road infrastructure, and transportation sectors. According to the statement released by the government, the proposed appointments reflect an intention to ensure continuity in critical sectors of governance. The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice position is mandated by the constitution, and the finance and health departments are viewed as essential for launching the new government effectively, especially given current national trends.

The correspondence sent to the legislature emphasizes the government's commitment to maintaining stable leadership and improving public services throughout the state as it enters its second term. The involvement of the House of Assembly is a standard constitutional process for the confirmation of commissioners and other high-level appointees in Nigerian state governments.

Why it matters

The approval of these appointments is significant for the stability and operational capacity of the Ekiti State government. By securing the reappointment of experienced officials in key areas such as justice, finance, and health, the administration aims to maintain policy continuity and efficient service delivery. The addition of ten special advisers is intended to provide additional support to the governor in managing the daily affairs of the state. These moves are viewed as essential steps in establishing a functional cabinet and support structure for the remainder of the governor’s term.

What happens next

The Ekiti State House of Assembly is now expected to screen and confirm the nominees as requested by the governor. The process involves the legislative body reviewing the qualifications and suitability of the candidates before granting final approval. Once confirmed, the commissioners and special advisers will be formally installed to begin their duties in their respective roles.