Oyo State Govt Sacks Commissioner For Works After Spending 55 Days Treating Coronavirus

Raphael Afonja

The Oyo state's commissioner of works, infrastructure and transport,  Raphael Afonja has been relieved off his duties by Governor Seyi Makinde after spending 55 days treating Coronavirus.

Though the reason for the commissioner’s sack was not officially stated, but Afonja had announced at a radio programme earlier on Monday that he spent 55 days treating COVID-19.

The commissioner's sack was conveyed in a letter dated August 10 and signed by Olubamiwo Adeosun, secretary to the state government (SSG).

It Read;

“I wish to convey the approval of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, on the termination of your appointment as Honourable Commissioner, with immediate effect.

“Consequent upon the above development, you are hereby directed to hand over all the government items in your possession to the permanent secretary (ministry of works, infrastructure and transport).

“I am to add that, your contribution within the time of your sojourn is appreciated and commendable, and therefore, wish you successes in your future endeavours. I thank you.”

An internal memo also signed by the SSG revealed that Governor Makinde swapped the portfolios of two of his commissioners.

Bayo Lawal who was commissioner of special duties was moved to the state’s ministry of local government and chieftaincy affairs, while Funmilayo Orisadeyi who held sway in the latter ministry was given the former role of Lawal. The redeployment takes immediate effect.