The state Commissioner for Political Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Taiwo Akeju, believe that if the parliamentary system currently in operation in local government will be replaced, it will be because people of the state clamoured for such.
Akeju, in a chat with our correspondent, however, declared that the matter was not causing rift between Oyetola and Aregbesola as being insinuated.
He said, “The debate is on and we have pros and cons regarding parliamentary and presidential systems of government in local governments in Osun State.
“I think the state Assembly is currently reviewing the existing law with a view to amending it. Until they come out with the amendment, we should remain calm. You will recall that His Excellency, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, recently inaugurated OSIEC, the body thatwill conduct local government election in the state.
“The OSIEC will at the appropriate time address all parties that will partake in the election. The mood of people is very clear on this. They want to align with other states in the federation. But we have to wait for the House of Assembly. We will adhere to the constitution.”
Asked if lack of consensus in the mode the local government election should take among their followers was a further prove that Oyetola and Aregbesola were no longer enjoying good relationship, Akeju said, “no clash at all between the two men.”
“I just told you that going by the mood of our people, they want to go presidential. Parliamentary system has caused instability in the system. In some of our local government areas, some people will just come together and decide to remove the chairman.
“We want to stop that. If we go presidential, the procedure for impeachment is very cumbersome. Oyetola will also do what the people want. The review of the law will be done openly.
“By and large, I want to tell you there is no conflict between Oyetola and Aregbesola. No factions in the party,” he added.
