Ondo Assembly: Dep Gov Has Right to Defend Himself
Fidelis David in Akure
The Ondo State House of Assembly, yesterday, said the state Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has the full right to defend himself over allegations of gross misconduct leveled against him.
This came a day after the assembly commenced an impeachment process against Aiyedatiwa was said to have allegedly approved millions of naira for the purchase of a bulletproof SUV for his personal use, to be sourced from the Palliative fund while the approval was allegedly given when Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu was recuperating in Germany.
However, the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Olatunji Oshati, in a statement, confirmed that the Assembly had served the deputy governor the allegation letter but, clarified that the procedure would be rooted in due process and not hastily conducted impeachment
“We find it necessary to address some misconceptions regarding the allegation letter served on the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa. It is crucial that our people understand that an allegation letter does not equate to an impeachment verdict.
“Indeed, the allegation letter served to the Deputy Governor marks the initiation of the impeachment proceedings. However, it’s essential to remember that this is a procedure rooted in due process, not a hastily conducted impeachment. We are conscious of the integrity of our present assembly and will not falter in our constitutional responsibilities to our constituents.
“We wish to declare, unequivocally, that the entire process remains within the realm of allegations. We are committed to examining these allegations objectively. Our primary responsibility is to uphold the integrity of our beloved state and foster accountability and transparency, even at the highest levels of government,” he said.
The lawmakers urged their constituents to refrain from making premature judgments, noting that neither the deputy governor nor the governor were immune to legislative actions.
“The allegation letter has been served, and Mr. Deputy Governor has the full right to defend himself. Rest assured, we are committed to following due process and will do so diligently,” the statement added.
