DADEOWO DEFENDS AIYEDATIWA, REJECTS ALLEGATIONS MADE AGAINST ONDO GOVERNOR

DADEOWO DEFENDS AIYEDATIWA, REJECTS ALLEGATIONS MADE AGAINST ONDO GOVERNOR

Former Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Ondo State on Special Interest, Apostle Temitope Olowofoyekun Dadeowo, has issued a detailed response to comments made by political commentator Jimmy Adekanle, popularly known as JAF, defending Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa against allegations relating to security spending, governance and other issues.

In a statement made available to the public, Dadeowo described the allegations as false, misleading and lacking factual basis, insisting that criticisms against the governor should be supported by verifiable evidence.

Addressing concerns over Ondo State's security expenditure, Dadeowo argued that comparisons between the current administration and previous governments should take into account changes in Nigeria's security environment and rising operational costs. According to him, increasing security challenges across the country have necessitated greater investment in security infrastructure and operations at both the federal and state levels.

He also defended the government's investment in technology-driven security initiatives, stating that modern surveillance systems, communication equipment and other security technologies require substantial funding to acquire and maintain.

On allegations that Governor Aiyedatiwa diverted public funds through a Bureau de Change, Dadeowo dismissed the claims as unsubstantiated and potentially defamatory. He maintained that anyone making criminal allegations against a public official should present credible evidence before the appropriate authorities.

Citing relevant provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, the Criminal Code and the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, Dadeowo stated that while freedom of expression is guaranteed, it does not extend to the publication of false or defamatory information capable of damaging another person's reputation.

The former gubernatorial aide also responded to criticism regarding the Ore–Okitipupa Road, noting that the highway falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government. He said responsibility for the construction and maintenance of federal roads rests with the Federal Ministry of Works and not the Ondo State Government.

Reacting to comments suggesting that party loyalists had been sidelined, Dadeowo argued that public funds should primarily be used for governance and development rather than political patronage. According to him, government resources are meant to improve infrastructure, healthcare, education, security and other services that benefit residents.

He further rejected claims that security personnel, including members of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps, were being neglected. Dadeowo stated that the current administration had continued to provide support for the corps through improved welfare, logistics and operational equipment.

While urging political actors to engage in issue-based criticism, Dadeowo cautioned against making allegations that could not be substantiated, adding that democratic engagement should be guided by facts and respect for the rule of law.

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, he added, remains committed to improving security, infrastructure and overall development across Ondo State despite political criticisms.