Assembly crisis: OSOPADEC denies role as Speaker’s resignation deadline expires

The Ondo State Oil-Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has vehemently denied any role in the escalating leadership crisis within the Ondo State House of Assembly. The commission issued a statement to refute media reports linking it to allegations of financial misconduct against the Assembly's Speaker, Olamide Oladiji.

“

OSOPADEC has absolutely no role in the internal affairs of the Ondo State House of Assembly.

Speaker Oladiji is reportedly facing impeachment proceedings initiated by 21 out of 26 members of the Assembly. The core of the allegations centers on the purported diversion of N44 million, with some reports suggesting the funds were related to OSOPADEC's budget. The disgruntled lawmakers had issued an ultimatum, demanding the Speaker's resignation by Sunday or face formal impeachment.

In its defense, OSOPADEC, through its Director of Media and Corporate Affairs, Godson Ewata, asserted that all its interactions with the state House of Assembly adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and established administrative procedures. The commission emphasized that the internal affairs of the legislature are solely the Assembly's responsibility and that OSOPADEC would not tolerate false accusations, blackmail, or character assassination.

“

The commission would no longer tolerate falsehood, blackmail, character assassination, and malicious propaganda targeted at it.

The commission further warned against the misuse of its name for political agendas, stating it would not be swayed from its mandate or due process. OSOPADEC affirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainable development, focusing on impactful projects in Ondo's oil-producing areas. It also reserved the right to pursue legal action against media outlets disseminating false information. Meanwhile, as the resignation deadline passed on Sunday, there was no confirmation of the Speaker's departure, despite reports of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa attempting to mediate.

“

The OSOPADEC remains focused on delivering impactful projects and improving the welfare of residents in the oil-producing areas of Ondo State and would not be distracted by politically motivated propaganda or campaigns intended to derail its mandate.