Their decisions, which took many observers by surprise, were officially communicated via letters read on the floor of the House by the Clerk, Mr. Benjamin Jaiyeola.
Hon. Akinruntan, who represents Ilaje Constituency 1 and is the son of the revered Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, Oba Fredrick Akinruntan, cited political balancing and respect for the conventional power-sharing arrangements in the state as the main reason for his resignation.
“I am stepping down in the interest of equity and fairness. I appreciate the opportunity to serve and thank my colleagues and the legislative staff for their support,” the former Deputy Speaker stated in his letter.
Immediately after his resignation, Hon. Ololade Gbegudu, representing Okitipupa Constituency 2, was nominated and unanimously elected as the new Deputy Speaker. His nomination was moved by Hon. Oluwatoyin Japhet (Akoko North-East) and seconded by Hon. Chris Ayebusiwa (Okitipupa 1).
In a similar move, Hon. Ogunmolasuyi, who represented Owo Constituency 1, also resigned from his position as Majority Leader. Although he did not publicly disclose his reasons during plenary, political insiders attribute the decision to efforts aimed at avoiding the concentration of political power in Owo Local Government Area, which also produced the current Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami.
Hon. Olatunji Oshati, representing Ose Constituency, was named the new Majority Leader of the House, while Hon. Muritala Suleiman (Akoko South-East) was appointed Chief Whip and Hon. Fabiyi Olatunji (Odigbo 1) was named Whip.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, commended the outgoing leaders for their selfless service and maturity, describing their actions as steps taken in the best interest of the state’s political stability.
“The changes reflect our collective resolve to maintain balance and fairness across all zones of the state. I commend Hon. Akinruntan and Hon. Ogunmolasuyi for placing the state above personal interests,” the Speaker said.
The development is seen by analysts as a strategic move by the state’s political leadership to douse tension, promote inclusiveness, and reposition the legislature ahead of future political engagements.