Son of Afenifere leader quits as Ondo SSG to pursue 2027 Senate ambition

Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, the Secretary to the Government of Ondo State and son of Afenifere National Leader Chief Reuben Fasoranti, has resigned his position to contest the Ondo Central Senatorial District seat in the 2027 general elections under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In his resignation letter made available to journalists on Friday, Fasoranti said he intends to seek the APC ticket for the Ondo Central Senatorial District. The letter read in part: “I, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, hereby formally express my interest to contest for the position of Senator representing the good people of Ondo Central Senatorial District. This decision is borne out of a deep sense of responsibility, a lifelong commitment to public service and an unwavering belief in the immense potential of our people.”

Fasoranti cited his over three decades of experience in the medical profession and public administration, including his role at the State House Medical Centre, Abuja, where he rose to directorate cadre before retiring in 2024, and his recent tenure as SSG as preparation for legislative responsibilities.

In the letter, he added: “I remain guided by values of humility, integrity, and dedication; principles that have shaped my personal and professional life. As I step forward in this journey, I do so with a clear vision: to provide purposeful representation, to listen to the aspirations of our people, and to translate those aspirations into meaningful action at the national level.” He also urged the support of residents of Ondo Central to realise his senatorial ambition.

Fasoranti was appointed SSG by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa shortly after the governor was sworn in as the 7th democratically elected Governor of Ondo State in February 2025. Before being named SSG, he had served as Chairman of the Ondo State Hospitals Management Board. He hails from Akure South Local Government Area.

A graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University and an accomplished physician, Fasoranti also founded and led the Medical Initiative for Africa Abuja and co-founded the Medical Alliance For Africa, a non-governmental organisation focused on healthcare awareness and preventive care.

His departure is part of a wider wave of resignations sweeping through the Ondo State government ahead of the 2027 elections. Other Ondo government appointees who have stepped down include Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Wale Akinlosotun, believed to be seeking a House of Representatives seat; Special Adviser on Health Simidele Odimayo, said to be eyeing the Ondo South Senatorial District; and Special Adviser on Transport Gbenga Omole, reportedly targeting a State House of Assembly seat in Akoko South West.

Fasoranti’s resignation also reflects a broader national trend. Attorney-General for Ondo State had earlier issued a legal advisory to public officers, citing constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act 2026, urging those wishing to contest the 2027 elections to step down from their positions to ensure clarity, promote transparency, and prevent any risk of disqualification or legal challenges.