LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA) – Ondo State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the deputy governor of the state.
During a critical emergency plenary session convened by the House, the initiation of the impeachment process transpired on Wednesday.
The impeachment proceedings against the deputy governor originated from grave allegations of misconduct and abuse of power, according to reports.
Aiyedatiwa, the incumbent officeholder, has been accused of engaging in activities that contradict the duties and expectations associated with his position. This allegation has resulted in a significant political storm, as 23 out of the 26 lawmakers in the Assembly have already affixed their signatures to an impeachment notice against Aiyedatiwa.
The fact that nearly all of the lawmakers in the Assembly have signed the notice indicates that the required two-thirds majority has been obtained, potentially setting the stage for Aiyedatiwa’s removal from office.
As a consequence of these unfolding events, stringent security measures have been implemented at the entrance and premises of the assembly. This heightened security presence serves to maintain order and prevent any potential disturbances.
READ ALSO: Ondo Deputy Gov Ayedatiwa Battles Ailing Akeredolu Over Transfer Of Power
The alleged misconduct at the center of the controversy revolves around the approval of a substantial sum of N300 million. This funding was designated for the acquisition of a bulletproof Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) intended for Aiyedatiwa’s personal use.
The money was allegedly approved when Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu was recuperating in Germany.
In the course of the assembly’s deliberations, the Majority Leader, Hon Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, invoked section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution to assert the importance of engaging with the deputy governor regarding the allegations before any action could be taken by the House.
Tope Agbulu, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) representing Akoko Southwest 2, supported the motion put forward by Ogunmolasuyi.
Consequently, the assembly directed Benjamin Jaiyeola, the Clerk of the House, to compose a letter addressed to Deputy Governor Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The purpose of this correspondence is to officially inform him of the grave accusations of misconduct that have been leveled against him.