By Gbenga Sodeinde
It has been widely reported, the inauguration of newly appointed Commissioners and Special Advisers by the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday, 8th August, 2023.
However, 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.
In Karounwi’s response to calls, as he kept telling everyone who cares to believe or not, about his alleged involvement in the clash, “I don’t know anything about the matter, in fact I was not even anywhere near Efon when the attack happened, but from my findings, it was a beer parlour argument that degenerated and caused the clash.
“My name was framed up in the clash by my detractors who felt it was an opportunity for them to deal with me, but swear, I know nothing about it”. Karounwi stated
Another source said the matter was as a result of long time animosity between the victims and and the alleged attackers that may not have any political link, snowball into political clash where Karounwi’s names was linked.
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 struck 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 allegedly loyal to Karounwi in which some of them have been arrested and prosecuted.
However, inside source who preferred anonymity further disclosed that the swearing was stepped down to lower the Political temperature in Efon adding that “Karounwi also believes in the decision saying is in order as the peace of Efon is more important than any Political appointment”.