Uneasy Calm As Osun Senator’s Aide Resigns
He Was Sacked For Disrespecting Tinubu – Senator Ajagunla
He Lied, Owed Me Five Months Salary – Ex- Aide
The political landscape in Osun Central has been thrown into a state of unease following the resignation of Timileyin Oyeniyi, the personal assistant on media to Senator Olubiyi Fadeyi Ajagunla, representing the district in the National Assembly.
Oyeniyi, who had served the senator for over a year, announced his resignation in a letter posted on his official Facebook page, stating that his decision would take effect from September 30, 2024.
His resignation letter reads partly, “It has been an honor to work with you and contribute to your efforts in serving our constituency and the nation. The experience I have gained while serving in this capacity has been invaluable, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to have been part of your distinguished team.
“To ensure a smooth transition, I am willing to wait while scouting for another qualified candidate to fill the position before my departure, and I am committed to working diligently until September 30th to facilitate this process.
“Once again, I thank you for the trust and confidence you placed in me, and I look forward to staying in touch and supporting your work from afar.”
He Was Sacked For Disrespecting Tinubu – Senator Ajagunla
However, the senator’s office offered a different narrative. In a statement signed by Tunde Badmus, the Chief of Staff to Senator Ajagunla, Oyeniyi was described as having been sacked for gross misconduct, negligence of duties, and disrespect towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to the statement, Oyeniyi’s dismissal was a result of his insubordination and disloyalty, particularly in relation to his conduct towards the president, which Senator Ajagunla found unacceptable.
“Oyeniyi’s dishonourable conduct has brought shame and disgrace to himself. The office of the senator cannot condone such behaviour. His dismissal is a reminder that incompetence and disloyalty will not be tolerated,” the statement read.
The senator’s office also announced the appointment of Oni Gbenga Lawrence from Boluwaduro Local Government as the new media aide, praising his dedication and loyalty as the key qualities that made him a suitable replacement for Oyeniyi.
He Owed Me Five Months Salaries – Embattled Aide
Oyeniyi, in an interview with Osun Defender on Wednesday, provided insights into the circumstances surrounding his resignation.
According to him, the resignation was a result of dissatisfaction with the senator’s leadership style and unresolved salary arrears.
“He owed me five months’ salary with no prior communication. When I complained, I was told by the chief of staff that they were working on it, but that was the last time I heard anything about it,” Oyeniyi said.
The embattled aide also dismissed claims that he was sacked by Senator Ajagunla, calling the reports “far from the truth.”
He explained that he had given the senator notice of his resignation days before making it public.
“I sent him a message around noon on Sunday, informing him about my decision to resign effective September 30th. I expected him to reach out, but he didn’t. By Monday morning, when I hadn’t heard from him, I decided to make my resignation public,” Oyeniyi explained.
Oyeniyi further noted that his resignation was also influenced by his commitment to the ethics of journalism, which he said should always uphold truth, objectivity, and fairness.
“Journalism is a great profession, and we should always strive for truth and accuracy in our stories. I cannot work forever in a place where I don’t feel my values align,” he added.
Despite the senator’s assertion that Oyeniyi was dismissed, the former aide insists that no formal process was followed.
“Before a political appointment can be terminated, there must be a query, a panel of inquiry, and an investigation, followed by a report and a letter of dismissal. None of that happened. How can you sack me after I’ve already resigned?” Oyeniyi questioned.
The situation has generated significant public interest, with many political observers closely watching the developments. While Oyeniyi maintains that he resigned voluntarily due to unresolved issues, Senator Ajagunla’s camp remains firm that the aide was dismissed for misconduct, leaving a cloud of controversy surrounding the resignation.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
