Crisis Looms in Ekiti Assembly as Lawmakers Probe Allegations of Disloyalty

Olakiitan Victor in Ado Ekiti
Crisis of confidence is now looming in the Ekiti State House of Assembly, as members yesterday began the probe into a case of disloyalty leveled against a member of the assembly, Hon Gboyega Aribisogan.

Aribisogan, who represents Ikole constituency 1 and former Chairman, House Committee on Information was alleged of being disloyal to Governor Ayodele Fayose by fraternizing with a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party being allegedly funded by Senator Buruji Kashamu .

However, Aribisogan at a press conference in Ado Ekiti , on Friday denied the allegation, accusing a particular lawmaker of peddling rumours against him just because of 2019 political ambition in Oye/Ikole fedeal constituency.
At Tuesday’s plenary, Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Kola Oluwawole, referred the matter to the House’s ad-hoc committee as well as its Committee on Ethics and privileges.

Members at the plenary were unanimous on decision to allow their colleague, Aribisogan, to defend himself against the allegations.

“It touches the fundamental existence of this House. I still believe that this House is indivisible. We are ever united and strong. Every member of this house has the spirit of oneness in discharging his/her duties.

“When I got this embarrassing news, I was highly disappointed . I have absolute confidence in every member of this House”, the speaker said.

Oluwawole reaffirmed the unity and invisibility of the Assembly, vowing that it will continue to support the policies of the Fayose-led state government.
“Despite the fact that Judas in the Bible betrayed Jesus, His ministry on earth was achieved,” Oluwawole said.

Other members, including Hons Samuel Omotoso, Henry Fajemilehin, Cecilia Dada and Akinniyi Sunday, also expressed disappointment at the development, but asked that Aribisogan be given fair hearing.
The House also announced the reconstitution of its earlier dissolved standing committees.