In a decisive move to combat corruption and enhance service delivery, the Ondo State Government, in collaboration with the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), has conducted a crucial workshop for local government officials. The training focused on instilling strict adherence to ethical governance and financial discipline at the grassroots level.
Governor's Zero-Tolerance Stance on Corruption
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa declared his administration's unwavering commitment to reforming local government administration. He emphasized that this reform will be anchored on the rule of law, financial discipline, and uncompromising compliance with the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act. The governor, represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, reassured residents that his government maintains a zero-tolerance policy for corruption.
"This workshop underscores our collective determination to entrench ethical governance, strengthen institutional accountability, and decisively confront the menace of corruption in public service," Aiyedatiwa stated. He highlighted that the event was a timely intervention to reinforce the core values of credible governance, coming at a time when citizens demand greater transparency and responsible management of public resources.
Asset Declaration and Legal Implications Stressed
A key pillar of the workshop was the serious emphasis on asset declaration for all public office holders, especially those managing public funds at the local level. Legal experts detailed the severe consequences of non-compliance with the constitutional provisions governing public officers.
Former Director of Legal Services at the Central Bank of Nigeria, Kofo Salam-Alada, explained the unique constitutional weight of the CCB. "The importance of the Code of Conduct Bureau is that it is the only institution for which the Constitution provides an entire schedule detailing its roles and responsibilities," Salam-Alada said. She noted that offences under the CCB, such as bribery and corruption, are elevated to a constitutional level, potentially carrying heavier consequences than breaches of other laws like the EFCC or ICPC Acts.
The implications for officials are severe and can include:
- Being banned from public office for 10 years for rendering a false asset declaration.
- Facing penalties for failing to declare assets altogether.
- Consequences for receiving unauthorized gifts or other infractions.
Collaboration for Statewide Reform
The Federal Commissioner representing the South-West on the CCB Board, Taofik Abdulsalam, commended the Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for the collaborative initiative. Abdulsalam urged the state to consider extending the training to members of the State Executive Council to deepen understanding of the Code of Conduct Act and strengthen ethics across all government tiers.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, represented by the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Dele Aladesanmi, noted that the workshop brought together key decision-makers and accounting officers from all 18 Local Government Areas in Ondo State. Participants were urged to actively engage, seek clarifications, and internalize the shared principles to ensure public resources translate into tangible benefits for the people.
Governor Aiyedatiwa concluded by affirming that his administration is resolute in changing the narrative of public service through comprehensive local government reforms built on accountability, transparency, and respect for due process.
