Ekiti Assembly confirms 17 commissioners, withholds one pending petition

By Idowu Adebomi, Ado Ekiti

The Ekiti State House of Assembly has confirmed seventeen of eighteen commissioner nominees submitted by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, leaving one nominee pending further vetting.

The nominees underwent thorough screening to assess their competence, efficiency, and readiness to serve in their respective ministries.

Among those confirmed were former Finance Commissioner Akintunde Oyebode of Ikole Local Government, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, Dapo Karounwi, Folorunso Olabode, Adesola Gold, Ojo Atibioke, Kehinde Ajobiewe, Peju Babafemi, and Tosin Ajisafe Aluko.

During Monday’s plenary, the last two nominees, Prof. Ojo Bakare and Mr. Seun Fakuade, presented records of their two-year tenures.

While Bakare was confirmed, Fakuade’s clearance was withheld due to a pending petition that the Assembly is yet to resolve.

Speaker Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye described the confirmed commissioners as “men and women of integrity” and urged them to work diligently to help the government achieve its objectives.

He also highlighted the historic commencement of Ekiti State’s first commercial flight, praising both former Governor Kayode Fayemi for championing the vision and Governor Oyebanji for its fruition.

Separately, the House reviewed the Ekiti State Revenue Administration Bill 2025, passing it through second reading.

The bill, aimed at improving revenue collection, boosting tax compliance, and harmonizing tax procedures, was referred to the Committee on Finance and Appropriation for further consideration, with a report expected by December 18.