The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to grassroots transformation through transparency, accountability, and capacity development.
The Governor made the declaration on Monday, July 28, 2025, while declaring open a four-day sensitisation workshop aimed at repositioning local government administration across the state.
The event, which is taking place at the Dome International Culture and Event Centre, Akure, is jointly organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Local Government Service Commission, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
It is being supported by other anti-graft agencies including the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes and Anti-Corruption Commission (OSPFACC).
Speaking at the opening session, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the workshop is not a ceremonial event but a strategic intervention to improve service delivery and ethical conduct at the local government level.
“Our local governments are closest to the people, and their effectiveness determines the strength of our democracy. This training is a deliberate effort to reverse declining standards and instill values of transparency and competence,” the Governor said.
He stressed the importance of professionalism and adherence to due process among top officials, adding that public service should be treated as a sacred duty. The Governor reiterated his administration’s unwavering stance on fiscal discipline and institutional accountability.
“We will continue to support initiatives that promote transparency, fiscal discipline, and effective monitoring and evaluation at all levels,” he added.
Governor Aiyedatiwa urged all participants to see themselves as stewards of public trust and apply the knowledge gained from the workshop in their respective jurisdictions.
In his welcome remarks, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Amidu Takuro, noted that the workshop is part of efforts to restore integrity in the state’s local governance structure. He highlighted the urgency of plugging financial management loopholes and improving service delivery.
Also speaking at the event, the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC Benin Zonal Office, Effa Okim, commended the Governor for championing transparency and accountability in governance. He said the EFCC is proud to collaborate with the Ondo State Government and stressed that anti-corruption principles must be internalized by all officials.
Prof. Adewole Adeyeye, Secretary of the Anti-Graft Commission, in his goodwill message, described the workshop as a rare opportunity to deepen ethical governance and urged participants to fully engage with the sessions.
Hon. Gbenga Fasua, Chairman of Akure South Local Government, who delivered the vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his commitment to reforming local governance.
The sensitisation workshop continues until Thursday, featuring expert lectures, interactive engagements, and presentations by leading figures in public accountability and governance.
Dignitaries present at the event included Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Bayo Philip; Deputy Chief Whip and Chairman, House Committee on Local Governments, Hon. Japhet Victor Oluwatoyin; local government chairmen, and other top government functionaries.
