Precious Oham
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State on Tuesday inaugurated the additional 19 commissioners and 14 special advisers confirmed by the Ekiti State House of Assembly.
However, it was gathered that Karounwi Oladapo, who was among the commissioner-nominees recommended by the Ekiti State Appointment Committee and confirmed by the State House of Assembly was dropped from the list of commissioners’ few days to the inauguration ceremony.
Sources confirmed that his sudden removal was sequel to a strong-worded petition by people of his town, Efon Alaaye-Ekiti and leaders of All Progressives Congress, APC, over his alleged act of indiscipline, arrogance, high-handedness, among others.
The last stroke 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.
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.
As at the time of this report, efforts to place several calls to Karounwi was declined and did not return the calls.
