The Acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has issued a directive to freeze the accounts of local government administrations across the state. The decision comes shortly after the appointment of caretaker chairmen for 18 local government areas and 33 local council development areas by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
The circular, authorized by the acting governor, also prohibits the local council chairmen from opening new accounts. This move has heightened tension within political circles in the state, particularly considering the existing political dynamics and reported tensions between Aiyedatiwa and the ailing Governor Akeredolu.
In the memo addressed to the Heads of Local Government Administrations, Aiyedatiwa’s directive includes the suspension of all spending and expenditure from local government accounts. The specific instructions involve no signing of cheques, no change of signatories, and no withdrawals until further directives are provided.
The decision has led to uncertainty and unrest among the affected local government officials, who now find themselves in a state of limbo regarding their future. One local government chairman, speaking anonymously, suggested that Aiyedatiwa’s move is an attempt to assert authority and ensure compliance with party objectives, especially in anticipation of the upcoming party primary next year.
The local government chairman hinted at the acting governor’s suspicion of funds being diverted, potentially prompting this freeze on accounts. The political landscape in Ondo State appears to be undergoing significant shifts, and the actions taken by Aiyedatiwa are likely to be closely watched and analyzed in the coming days, given the broader political context in the state.
