In an unprecedented display of humility, the chairmen of the 20 local government areas in Ogun State prostrated and begged Governor Dapo Abiodun for forgiveness. This comes after they accused him of diverting funds that were allocated to their respective local governments.
The allegations made by the Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government Area, Wale Adedayo, created a stir in the state. Adedayo claimed that the statutory allocations and over ten billion naira fund of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme were being diverted by the governor. He also highlighted that the constitutionally stipulated 10% of the state's Internally Generated Revenue meant for local governments had not been provided since Abiodun assumed office.
However, Governor Abiodun swiftly denied these allegations and clarified the financial arrangements in place. In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, the governor explained that the funds were being handled by the constitutionally recognized Joint Account and Allocation Committee (JAAC). According to Abiodun, the JAAC ensures that the council chairmen receive the necessary allocations for optimal performance.
The governor further provided transparency on recent fund allocations to the local government areas. He shared that over N5 billion had been distributed among the 20 local government areas in the state during the latest JAAC meeting. Abiodun emphasized that the JAAC is mandated to convene monthly meetings where allocations to local governments are discussed and appropriately allocated.
Despite the governor's clarification, the chairmen felt compelled to seek forgiveness directly from Governor Abiodun. The chairmen, led by the ALGON Chairman, Babatunde Emilola-Gazal, visited the governor's office in Abeokuta and expressed their remorse. In a heartfelt plea, Emilola-Gazal stated, "Your Excellency, we have come here to beg you as a father that you are, as a father of all in the state, we want you to forgive us." He went on to apologize on behalf of the council chairmen, particularly Wale Adedayo, who wrote the initial petition.
The act of prostrating, a symbol of deep respect and humility in Nigerian culture, added dramatic weight to the sincere apology. A video of the meeting quickly went viral, capturing the attention of the public and highlighting the challenging relationship between local government authorities and the state government.
This incident underscores the importance of effective communication and cooperation between the state government and local authorities. It is crucial for both parties to work together transparently and address any grievances or misunderstandings promptly to ensure the effective delivery of public services and the well-being of the people.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-30 News
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