Tensions in the Ondo State House of Assembly intensified on Monday as legislators accused Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of meddling in legislative business. Currently, 21 out of 26 assembly members are demanding the removal of Speaker Olamide Oladiji, claiming the governor is attempting to block the impeachment process.
This political instability has halted state legislative work. The conflict arose following claims that the Speaker independently altered the 2025 budget for the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC)—a budget totaling N9.2 billion—and mismanaged N44 million belonging to the commission.
Olatunji Fabiyi, who chairs the House Committee on Information, stated that the push to replace the Speaker is settled. He characterized the governor’s involvement as an improper breach of legislative autonomy, asserting that the issue concerns only the House members. Fabiyi further questioned the governor’s motives for protecting Oladiji, especially given the support for his removal by over two-thirds of the assembly.
Although Governor Aiyedatiwa originally asked for one week of negotiations, he later pushed for a 14-day extension during private meetings. That deadline concludes next Sunday. Fabiyi confirmed that plenary sessions will remain suspended until a leadership change occurs. He warned that if Oladiji does not step down voluntarily, the lawmakers are prepared to proceed with a formal impeachment vote.
