The Oyo State House of Assembly has directed four local government chairmen to step aside pending investigations into allegations of gross misconduct and financial impropriety against them.
The decision was reached during plenary presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Abiodun Fadeyi, after the Assembly received petitions concerning the four local government areas.
Those affected are Timothy Oyeniyi of Ogbomoso South Local Government; Olateju Michael Alabi of Oriire Local Government; Adegbite Isaiah of Surulere Local Government; and Muritala Abiodun Oyewumi of Iwajowa Local Government.
Following its consideration of the petitions, the House approved the temporary removal of the four chairmen from office to allow its investigation committee to examine the allegations.
Speaking on the development, the House Majority Leader, Sanjo Adedoyin, said the Assembly was exercising its constitutional oversight responsibility to promote accountability and transparency in the administration of local governments across the state.
Adedoyin, who represents Ogbomoso South State Constituency, said the vice chairmen of the affected councils would assume acting responsibilities while the investigations are ongoing.
He explained that the final decision on the chairmen would be based on the findings and recommendations of the House committee assigned to investigate the allegations.
The Assembly subsequently mandated its Committee on Local Government Matters to conduct a thorough investigation into the petitions and submit its report within one week.
The committee’s findings will guide further legislative action on the matter.
