Missing N7Bn: Aiyedatiwa Misleading Ondo People –Says Group

The group also lamented that Aiyedatiwa is attempting to diminish the legacies and achievements of his late boss, Rotimi Akeredolu through lies and propaganda.

In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Chief Yemi Oladiran, the group said that Aiyedatiwa is employing mindless propaganda to incite the people of the state against the deceased Akeredolu, who was his benefactor.

OEA was responding to reports that Aiyedatiwa has approved the payment of January 2017 salary arrears and the alleged “hidden money” that is now being utilised by his administration.

The group said:”There is no hidden money anywhere. The Akeredolu administration planted the seed that is now ripe for harvest. Aiyedatiwa, who is now reaping the benefits, is too deceptive to give credit to his late boss. It is the height of wickedness.

“The truth is that more funds have been allocated to the state by the Federal government than before. For instance, the Federal Government released N7 billion intended to clear part of the outstanding dues to contractors. However, the then acting governor, now the governor, Aiyedatiwa, halted the payments midway through the process. The money remains in the state coffers.

“Another N7 billion was also released by the Federal Government in December while Mr. Aiyedatiwa held the position of acting governor. This was followed by an additional 9 billion paid in this new year.

“These releases were approved by the Federal Government months ago.

“Pensioners’ palliative has been paid monthly since inception, and the pensioners can attest to this. It was approved, along with other palliatives, by the late former governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, and the funds were made available as well.

“Rufus Giwa Polytechnic,Owo, like other institutions, receives its monthly subvention from the state government whenever salaries are being paid. Also, a monthly release of N200 million for gratuity has been in place since the Akeredolu administration began.

“The judgment debt owed to the local governments was approved by the late former governor and the funds were released for payment early December, 2023.

“It is also important to note that the previous administration had been setting aside funds each month to address the outstanding January 2017 salary arrears. The Labour Leaders can testify that it was agreed at their last meet held in December that the outstanding January 2017 will be paid this month. Equally, the payment of outstanding salaries owed to former political office holders was approved, part of which was already disbursed in November, 2023.

“Please be aware that the salary was approved and payment was made with their alleged “forged signature”. People should not be deceived by the blatant lies being spread around. The so-called hidden money is simply the funds that entered the state treasury just recently.

“This deceptive approach by Mr. Aiyedatiwa is both irresponsible and mindless. Moreover, he is the first intolerant person to hold the position of Governor in Ondo State. Opposition views are met with threats and abusive language.

“Those responsible for managing his image are inept at operating within a democratic framework. They continue to conceal their inadequacies by displaying unfounded arrogance to the people of Ondo State. They have consistently referred to the people of the state as ‘senseless,’ ‘useless,’ ‘brainless,’ and other derogatory terms. However, this time shall pass!”

When contacted for reaction on the allegations, the Chief Press Secretary to governor Aiyedatiwa, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan said “No comment.”