The Presidency has confirmed the resignation of the Chief of the Staff to the president Goodluck Jonathan, Mike Oghiadome.
The President’s Special Advisor on Media and Publicity, Reuben Abati confirmed this saying Oghiadome resigned in order to pursue his political ambition.
“The president received the letter today which is titled letter of resignation and it says he wishes to pursue other political necessities in our great party,” Mr. Abati said.
“You would recall that about two weeks ago before the president travelled to Ethiopia, he announced in council that if there was any member of the cabinet or any major political appointee who wants to pursue some other political roles- that he had been hearing rumours that some people maybe wanted to go and pursue other things in whatever capacity- that such people are going to be engaged heavily in political activities, they should let him know. And if they see that they are going to be really busy, and such activities may occupy their time extraordinarily, they should please step aside or come and see him for discussion. That you can confirm. It happened in the open floor of the council. And you can see what I have pointed out as the reason for the chief of staff’s resignation is in line with that.
“So, we find the speculation particularly by some of the online platforms callous, completely unreasonable considering that this is a man who has… given time and energy to the pursuit of the good interest of our country. Mr. President appreciates his contributions and he would like to put on record that indeed he was a man who discharged his responsibilities diligently and the country is very grateful to him and the president personally would like to wish him well in his future endeavours”.
Oghiadome who was Deputy Governor of Edo State under Lucky Igbinedion, is expected to run for governor according to reports.
However, the government’s account has been countered by Sahara Reporters who point to Oghiadome’s involvement in the recently uncovered Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) mega fraud as informing the President’s request that he resign.