Ogun LG chairman impeached for zero allocation

On September 14, 2023, the councillors of Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State impeached the suspended chairman, Wale Adedayo, over allegations of financial misappropriation and diversion of council funds. The impeachment was carried out after Adedayo appeared before the councillors following an invitation extended to him over the allegations. The councillors accused Adedayo of spending the council funds up to August, whereas the laws only allow him to spend till March 2023. He was also accused of spending N5.2 million to produce 20 chairs and tables instead of the 290 pieces approved by the state government. Adedayo denied all the allegations, but the councillors voted to impeach him by a vote of 5-4. One councillor abstained from voting. Adedayo has accused the councillors of acting on a script written by the state governor, Dapo Abiodun. He said he knows the governor is offended by his stance on the state government's withholding of funds from local governments. Abiodun has not commented on the impeachment. The impeachment of Adedayo is the first of its kind in Ogun State since 2016. It remains to be seen whether the state government will recognize the impeachment or if Adedayo will challenge it in court. The impeachment has been met with mixed reactions from the public. Some people have praised the councillors for taking action against Adedayo, while others have accused them of being politically motivated. It is important to note that Adedayo has not been found guilty of any wrongdoing. He has denied all the allegations against him and has the right to defend himself in court. The impeachment of Adedayo is a significant development in Ogun State politics. It remains to be seen how it will play out in the coming days and weeks.