By Our Reporter
Following the inauguration of newly appointed Commissioners and Special Advisers by the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday, 8th August, 2023, it wasn’t unnoticed that one of the commissioner nominees, Mr. Oladapo Karounwi couldn’t attend the inauguration in spite of his confirmation by the State House of Assembly.
Karounwi’s absence at the event generated a lot of questions among some members of the pen profession, especially when the newly inaugurated commissioners were busy rejoicing and throwing parties.
According to reports, Oladapo has been seriously depressed and feeling despondent after he was dropped from the commissioners’ list few days to swearing in.
Close sources confirmed that Oladapo had since gone into hiding and has not been responding to calls except for close allies as he battles with the psychological consequences of the situation.
Karounwi Oladapo was among the top commissioner nominees recommended by the Ekiti State Appointment Committee set up by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
The reason for this couldn’t be far fetched as he played significant roles during the electioneering campaign towards the victory of the Governor at the poll.
Being a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Karounwi Oladapo did not face much heat before the lawmakers, hence he was among the list of nominees confirmed.
Our correspondent confirmed that his sudden removal was sequel to a strong worded petition by the people of his town, Efon Alaaye Ekiti and leaders of APC over his alleged act of indiscipline, arrogance, highandedness among others.
The last straw that broke the camel’s back was his alleged involvement in the attack on three APC chieftains few weeks ago over the struggle for council chairmanship seat.
The APC chieftains were said to be seriously injured by some thugs loyal to Karounwi in which some of them have been arrested and prosecuted.
According to a source close to government, Governor Oyebanji was first reluctant to drop Karounwi but the allegations against him by his people were weighty and could not be ignored particularly by a Governor who loves to promote discipline and obey party principles.
