Ondo SDP accuses Aiyedatiwa of withholding LG allocations

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Ondo State

The Social Democratic Party in Ondo State has raised serious allegations against Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration, accusing it of illegally withholding federal allocations meant for local governments across the state.

In a strongly worded statement issued in Akure, SDP State Chairman Barr. Gbenga Akinbuli condemned the alleged action as a gross violation of fiscal federalism and democratic norms. He asserted that funds constitutionally earmarked for grassroots development were being diverted by the state government, leaving local councils without critical resources for healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security.

“We have credible information that federal allocations meant for local governments are being collected by the state government,” Akinbuli stated. “This revelation raises serious concerns about fiscal federalism, local autonomy, and the principles of democracy.”

The SDP chairman described the alleged diversion as “unconscionable” and demanded the immediate release of all withheld funds to the rightful local government authorities. “The state government must prioritize transparency and accountability in the management of local government funds,” he insisted.

Akinbuli further accused the ruling party of systematically undermining democratic processes in Ondo State, citing alleged manipulation of previous local and state elections to suppress opposition participation. “The actions of the state government are consistent with efforts to suppress the will of the people. The manipulation of election results to keep opposition parties out of power is a clear sign of authoritarian tendencies,” he declared.

The opposition party proposed a fundamental reform in fiscal administration, calling for future federal allocations to be disbursed directly to local governments. This measure, they argued, would ensure local authorities could function independently and deliver essential services to their communities.

“The people deserve better governance. It is time for the state government to uphold the constitution and respect the rights of local authorities to govern in the interest of their communities,” Akinbuli emphasized.

The SDP chairman called for urgent intervention from the Attorney General of the Federation, warning that the alleged disregard for local government autonomy contradicts the federal government’s stated commitment to decentralization and constitutional order.

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