By Damilola Origbemisuyi, Akure
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has sacked his Special Assistant on Forestry, Adeboye Taofiq Ewenla, over allegations of bribery made by some timber merchants in the state.
Earlier on, Ewenla was accused of demanding N30m in bribes by some timber merchants in the state.
In a press statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan which was made available to newsmen on Wednesday, Aiyedatiwa said the decision to sack his aide was made to uphold the transparency and accountability expected of public officials.
The governor also ordered an investigation into the management of forest reserves in the state, ensuring that those responsible for overseeing these resources are held accountable for their actions.
The Governor emphasized the importance of all political appointees conducting themselves within the bounds of the law and adhering to the guidelines that govern their duties.
The statement reads “The Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has dismissed from office the Special Assistant on Forestry (Central Senatorial District), Mr. Adeboye Taofiq Ewenla, with immediate effect.
“This followed allegations of bribery and intimidation levelled against Mr. Ewenla by some timber merchants in the State. Governor Aiyedatiwa also ordered a probe into the activities of those saddled with the responsibility of managing forest reserves in the State.
“A replacement for Mr. Ewenla will be announced in due course. The governor urged all political appointees to conduct themselves in line with the provisions of the law and rules guiding their duties.”