CSOs say sack of Ondo HoS gross disregard for financial regulations

The Nigeria Civil Society Desk has described the recent sack of the Ondo State Head of Service as controversial and a gross disregard for financial regulations.

In a statement made available to newsmen on Friday, the group’s National Coordinator, Comrade Friday Eleojo, condemned the sack and called for redress.

Eleojo argued that the move has sparked concern among citizens, since Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa of Ondo state made the decision to remove the Head of Service, especially with rumoured speculation of a planned removal of the state’s Accountant General.

He questioned the ongoing controversy surrounding the Governor’s style of governance and apparent disregard for financial regulations, adding that this has raised questions about transparency and accountability within the state government.

According to him, Ayedatiwa abruptly dismissed the Head of Service after an alleged disagreement over responsible spending and adherence to government financial regulations.

He said that sources within the meeting claim that the Head of Services had advised caution in expenditures and emphasized the need to respect established financial protocols, prompting the governor’s wrath.

“ It is worrisome that the governor has appointed his kinsman and loyalist as a replacement.

“ Reports suggest that this decision was motivated by personal loyalty rather than professional qualifications or expertise in public administration and such appointments, based on personal connections rather than merit, undermine the principles of fair governance and can erode public trust.

“ Adding fuel to the fire, insiders have revealed that the newly appointed head of services openly pledged allegiance to the governor, pledging to prioritize his interests and cater to his demands.

“ This blatant political favoritism has only served to intensify concerns among the public regarding the state’s financial management “, he said.

He said that the position of the accountant general, known for its crucial role in ensuring the appropriate management of public funds, is important for the financial well-being of the state.

“ As Civil Society Organizations and concerned citizens committed to strengthening democratic values, rule of law, constitutional rights of citizens and professionalism/competence in our administrative system, we are condemning this unlawful, unconstitutional and unprofessional action of Mr. Governor while voicing our discontent and demanding accountability and transparency in the governor’s decision-making process.

“ Appointments based on personal connections undermine the principles of good governance and can lead to mismanagement of public funds” , he noted.