Ondo State House of Assembly, yesterday, stated that the letter it sent to the state Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, accusing him of gross misuse of office does not translate to an impeachment verdict.
According to the Assembly, the letter will afford Aiyedatiwa the opportunity to defend himself of the allegations levelled against him.
The Assembly, in a statement issued by the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Olatunji Oshati, however, disclosed that the letter indicated the impeachment process, noting that all necessary procedures would be followed.
The statement reads: “We find it necessary to address some misconceptions regarding the allegation letter served on the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. It is crucial that our people understand that an allegation letter does not equate to an impeachment verdict.
“Indeed, the allegation letter served to the deputy governor marks the initiation of the impeachment proceedings.
“We wish to declare, unequivocally, that the entire process remains within the realm of allegations. We are committed to examining these allegations objectively. Our primary responsibility is to uphold the integrity of our beloved state and foster accountability and transparency, even at the highest levels of government.”
MEANWHILE, Ondo Professionals for Good Governance Initiatives (OPGGI), yesterday, claimed that the move by the embattled deputy governor to halt impeachment proceedings against him signified guilt.
The group alleged that Aiyedatiwa had perfected plans to approach the law court to stall the impeachment process.
The state House of Assembly had sent an allegation letter to the deputy governor on Wednesday with allegations of gross misconduct levelled against him.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Adeyemi Kayode, the OPGGI urged Aiyedatiwa to allow the democratic process to run its course, noting that the lawmakers’ actions are under public scrutiny.
The statement reads: “We have credible information that the deputy governor is seeking legal intervention to halt his impeachment process. As vigilant observers, we urge the deputy governor to refrain from such an action.
“Although we suspect that his impeachment may be controversial, we are equally interested in the allegations the lawmakers have raised against him.”
