The Inside Story Of Rauf Olaniyan’s Impeachment: A Tale Of Betrayal, Deceit, And Power Play

The impeachment of Rauf Olaniyan as the Deputy Governor of Oyo State on July 18, 2022, sent shockwaves throughout the state’s political landscape. The event was the culmination of a series of events that had been unfolding behind the scenes, involving power struggles, betrayals, and deceit. In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Olaniyan opens up about the events leading to his impeachment, providing a rare glimpse into the intrigue and machinations that characterized his final days in office.

Rauf Olaniyan, the former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, has spoken out about the events leading to his impeachment on July 18, 2022. In an exclusive interview with this newspaper, Olaniyan described the impeachment process as a “kangaroo” affair fueled by backbiters within the government.

Olaniyan admitted to having “irreconcilable differences” with Governor Seyi Makinde, but attributed his removal to individuals in government who schemed against him by spreading false narratives to tarnish his image. He emphasized that despite their differences, he and Makinde were “normal” until the impeachment process began.

The former deputy governor alleged that individuals surrounding Makinde felt threatened by him and started backbiting, saying all sorts of things behind his back to the governor. Olaniyan claimed that some of these individuals even confessed to their involvement in the scheming after his impeachment.

Olaniyan served as Makinde’s deputy governor until his removal in 2022 over allegations of insubordination, gross misconduct, and financial impropriety. However, he dismissed these accusations, likening them to a deliberate attempt to seal his fate as deputy governor.

The Oyo State House of Assembly ratified the findings of a seven-man panel constituted by the Chief Judge to investigate the allegations. Despite this, Olaniyan maintained that he was not guilty of the allegations and that his impeachment was a result of the scheming by individuals in government.

On alleged disloyalty to his former principal, Olaniyan said that having been in government circles for many years, he was too experienced not to understand the import of loyalty. He emphasized that he had always shown respect to Makinde and had never spoken ill of him since his removal as deputy governor.

Olaniyan’s experience in government spans many years, having served in various offices at the local, state, and federal levels. He has also held leadership positions in several organizations, including the Nigeria Society of Engineers.

Despite his impeachment, Olaniyan has chosen not to harbor resentment towards Governor Makinde. Instead, he has maintained a respectful demeanor towards his former principal, greeting him with respect whenever they meet.

In conclusion, Rauf Olaniyan’s account of his impeachment provides a unique insight into the complexities of politics in Oyo State. His allegations of scheming by individuals in government and his dismissal of the allegations against him raise important questions about the nature of politics in Nigeria. As the state continues to grapple with the aftermath of his impeachment, Olaniyan’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity, loyalty, and transparency in governance.

Source: The PUNCH.