In a recent statement sourced from a press release by Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, the Ondo State Government vehemently refutes widespread claims that the Acting Governor, Honourable Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa, imposed a freeze on local government accounts and suspended the Chief of Protocol (CoP) to Governor Akeredolu. The government emphasizes that no such actions have been taken and urges the public to disregard the circulating rumors.

The government clarifies that there has been no instance where the Acting Governor or any state official ordered a freeze on local government accounts. The circulating information is dismissed as false and unfounded, with a plea to the people of Ondo State to disregard the rumors.

While emphasizing its commitment to the effective functioning of the newly established thirty-three Local Council Development Areas (LCDA(s)) and the existing 18 Local Government Areas (LGA(s)), the government assures that necessary personnel have been deployed to LCDA(s). Officials are advised to carry out their duties diligently and in accordance with established processes.

Addressing a pending court case filed by the opposition party before the State High Court, the government expresses hope for a swift resolution of the contending issues.

Furthermore, preparations for the upcoming Local Government elections are underway, with the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) working on the delineation of a minimum of 5 Councillorship Electoral Wards in each LCDA. This initiative is part of the transition guidelines outlined in the Government White Paper for the expansion from 18 LGAs to 51 LGA(s)/LCDA(s).

The government also dispels social media misrepresentations concerning the Circular Letter No. FAD/DG.156/98 of December 14, 2023, related to the Acting Governor’s engagements. The alleged suspension of Mr. Bola Alabi, the Chief of Protocol, is clarified as misinformation, emphasizing that no such action has been taken by the Acting Governor or any other authority.

It is underscored that the preparation of the Governor’s engagements represents a small fraction of the CoP’s responsibilities, and there has been no suspension, as evidenced by Mr. Bola Alabi actively participating in his duties.

The public is urged to verify the authenticity of information related to the Ondo State Government from official sources before dissemination.