Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, the Commissioner for Information in Ondo State, has refuted claims that the acting governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, imposed a freeze on local government accounts following his declaration as acting governor by the Ondo State House of Assembly.
The assembly made the decision after receiving a medical leave notification from Rotimi Akeredolu, the governor. Subsequent reports alleged that the acting governor had ordered the freezing of local government accounts.
In a statement released on Sunday, Commissioner Ademola-Olateju dismissed the rumors, stating, “At no time has the acting governor or any functionary of the state put a freeze on local government accounts or ordered any closure. This information is fake and baseless. We ask that the good people of Ondo state, particularly officials of local governments, to disregard the rumor.”
Ademola-Olateju emphasized the commitment of the state government to the proper functioning of the new thirty-three Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) and the existing 18 Local Government Areas (LGA) to enhance grassroots development. He also addressed the ongoing legal issues related to the creation of additional LGAs, expressing optimism that the court would soon decide on the matter.
Regarding rumors of the suspension of Bola Alabi, the Chief of Protocol to Governor Akeredolu, the commissioner clarified, “Nothing could be further from the truth. The chief of protocol to Mr. Governor has not been placed on suspension by the Ag. Governor nor by any person.”
Ademola-Olateju explained that the social media misrepresentation of a circular letter related to the preparation of the acting governor’s engagements had falsely claimed the suspension. He clarified that Bola Alabi remains in his position and is actively engaged in his duties.
The commissioner concluded by stating that the acting governor is prepared to make necessary changes to ensure the effective administration of the state. The government also assured the public of its commitment to a smooth transition and the conduct of local government elections in the state.
