I did not request a Christmas gift of N1 million from LG chairmen - Oyebanji
On Thursday, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji cautioned local government officials against using his name for unlawful activities. He deemed this advice essential, revealing that in December 2023, he became aware that officials from each council had deducted N1 million from the approved funds for Christmas celebrations, falsely claiming it was intended for him.
"I did not instruct anyone to deduct money on my behalf," affirmed the governor.
"This information may or may not be accurate. If it is, I want to clarify that I did not receive any funds. Let me be unequivocal – I did not instruct anyone to deliver money to me, and I did not accept any money. Moving forward, if you encounter such claims, please reach out to me promptly."
"I strictly prohibit the use of my name for any fraudulent activities. I have made a covenant with God to uphold transparency, and such misconduct will not occur under my leadership. I am committed to ensuring responsible spending of public funds; while I won't access your money, I won't tolerate reckless expenditures," declared Oyebanji.
The governor conveyed this message in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, during the commencement of a three-day retreat for council chairmen and other high-ranking officials from the 38 local government areas and local council development areas in the state. The retreat was organized by the state's Ministry of Local Government Affairs.
He provided reassurance to the recently sworn-in local government officials in the state, emphasizing that his administration would neither redirect nor access the allocations designated for them from the federation accounts.
Oyebanji issued a stern warning to the chairmen and other officials, cautioning against using his name for fraudulent activities. He made it clear that anyone caught doing so would be subjected to the full force of the law.
Additionally, Oyebanji encouraged the council chairmen to adopt a participatory approach, advising them to engage extensively with all communities to undertake projects that align with their interests and directly benefit the masses.
"Today, let me emphasize that opportunities carry responsibilities. Those who elected you did so with a purpose. The pivotal question you should reflect upon is, 'How can I create a positive impact in the lives of the people?' Consider, 'How will I be remembered once my term concludes?' The three-year tenure is brief and will soon conclude. Will you still be welcomed or overlooked? The decision lies with you," stated the governor.
Folorunso Olabode, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, characterized the retreat as a demonstration of the vital role local government plays in the developmental agenda of Ekiti State.
During the event, Senator Olubunmi Adetumbi, a resource person, remarked, "The purpose of the retreat is to establish a framework for a collaborative and unified partnership between the state and local governments, ensuring operations that are free of division so that citizens can receive value for their money."
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