A group known as Concerned Ondo-Ekimogun in Diaspora has condemned the decision of Ondo State Governor, His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa to appoint members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) into Local Government Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state.
The group made this known in a statement released by Rasheed Akinbolaji where they described the decision of the Governor as a disregard for the rule of law and an affront to the people of the state.
It read “The recent actions of the Governor of Ondo State, HE Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa, in appointing members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) to non-existent Local Government Development Areas (LCDAs) in Ondo State is not only a blatant disregard for the rule of law but also a direct affront to the people of Ondo State.
“As Concerned Ondo-Ekimogun in Diaspora, we are compelled to voice our strong condemnation of these appointments, which represent a clear violation of judicial orders and a gross abuse of power.
“The Ondo State High Court sitting in Akure recently nullified the constitution of caretaker committees in the 18 local government areas of Ondo State. This judgment, coupled with the latest ruling from the Supreme Court, makes it unequivocally clear that such appointments are illegal.
“Despite these clear judicial pronouncements which is yet to be appealed, Governor Ayedatiwa has chosen to flout the law, appointing his political cronies to positions in LCDAs that do not exist.”
The group also accused the Governor of betraying public trust with the appointments made into the LCDAs.
It read “These appointments are not just a legal issue; they represent a profound betrayal of the public trust. At a time when Ondo State is grappling with significant challenges, including food insecurity and unemployment, the governor’s decision to prioritize political patronage over the well-being of the people is deeply troubling.
“The government’s failure to address these critical issues while engaging in acts of nepotism and cronyism further impoverishes our people.”
They added that they will be taking necessary steps to ensure that the state government is accountable to the people at all times.
“We, the Concerned Ondo-Ekimogun in Diaspora, are committed to ensuring that the laws of Ondo State and Nigeria are respected and upheld. We will not stand idly by while the resources and opportunities meant for the development of our state are squandered.
“We call on Governor Ayedatiwa to immediately cease the current looting of local government resources by members of the APC. We are compiling a comprehensive dossier of these atrocities and will expose them on a local government basis in due course.
“The people of Ondo State deserve much better. They deserve a government that is accountable, transparent, and committed to their welfare. We urge all well-meaning citizens and stakeholders to join us in this fight for justice and good governance. Together, we can ensure that the rule of law prevails and that the true potential of Ondo State is realized.
“Concerned Ondo-Ekimogun in Diaspora remains steadfast in our resolve to protect the interests of our people and to hold those in power accountable for their actions. The time for change is now, and we are ready to lead the charge.