Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun denies allegations of diverting federal allocations from local governments. He asserts the need to augment funds to meet local councils’ obligations.
Accusations came from the Ijebu East Local Government Chairman, Wale Adedayo. Abiodun, in response, highlights the Joint Account and Allocation Committee’s role in managing LG funds. He notes the recent sharing of over N5 billion among the state’s 20 local government areas.
The JAAC comprises key stakeholders to ensure proper allocation of funds. It includes the Chief Economic Adviser to the governor, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Accountant General of the State, Permanent Secretary, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, all 20 local government chairmen, representatives from Traditional Councils, SUBEB, NULGE, local govt pensioners, retired primary school teachers, Local Government Service Commission, Local Government Pension Commission, and NUT.
Abiodun refutes claims and emphasizes transparency in allocation processes. He states that between May and July 2023, the JAAC shared substantial sums with local governments. He highlights the continuous involvement of JAAC to ensure proper allocation discussions.
