Tension within the Ondo State House of Assembly rose on Friday as 24 out of 26 legislators signaled their support for the impeachment of Speaker Olamide Oladiji. The move follows serious accusations of financial mismanagement and office abuse. Specifically, members allege the Speaker mishandled ₦44 million linked to the budget adjustment of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission.
Hon. Olawunmi Fayemi-Obayelu, representing Ilaje Constituency II, confirmed that the count of members pushing for the Speaker’s exit has increased to 24. She highlighted that while the Assembly had observed a two-week reconciliation period requested by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, that window is set to close this Sunday. The legislators also criticized Oladiji for allegedly issuing unauthorized resolutions and questioned his management of the O’Datiwa Meter Distribution Programme.
In his defense, Speaker Oladiji dismissed the claims as politically driven, suggesting the push is tied to political maneuvering for the 2027 elections. He argued that disgruntled members are targeting him because they failed to secure political favors. Conversely, House spokesman Olatunji Fabiyi refuted the Speaker’s narrative, asserting that the demand for removal is grounded strictly in accountability and adherence to legislative procedures. Despite intervention attempts from Governor Aiyedatiwa and APC leadership, the opposing lawmakers maintain that their position is final.
