The attention of the Ondo State House of Assembly Majority Leader has been drawn to recent unfounded allegations circulating in certain media outlets, accusing the Honourable Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Isaac Omowunmi, of budget padding and misappropriation of funds. These baseless claims are misleading and appear to be deliberate attempts to tarnish the reputation of dedicated public servants and distract the state government from its developmental agenda.
As the Majority Leader of the Ondo State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Finance and Appropriation Committee, I wish to categorically state that these allegations are devoid of truth and substance. It is imperative to clarify the following:
1. Budget Preparation Process:
The formulation of the state budget is a collaborative effort spearheaded by the Ministry of Budget and Planning, not the Ministry of Finance. The budget estimates projected revenues and expenditures for the fiscal year and serves as a financial blueprint for the state’s developmental objectives. It is essential to understand that a budget, by its nature, is a proposal and not an account of actual expenditures.
2. Role of the Commissioner for Finance:
The primary responsibility of the Commissioner for Finance is to manage the state’s finances, including the disbursement of funds as approved in the budget and with the approval of the Executive Governor of the State. The Commissioner does not unilaterally allocate funds or insert provisions into the budget. Any insinuation that Mrs. Omowunmi has engaged in budget padding is not only false but also reflects a misunderstanding of the budgetary process.
3. Transparency and Accountability:
Under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, the current administration has consistently demonstrated a commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent management of public resources. The Governor would never condone any act of financial impropriety, and there is no evidence to suggest any wrongdoing by the Commissioner for Finance.
4. Political Motivations:
It is disheartening to observe that elements within the opposition party, notably the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), are propagating these allegations as part of a smear campaign to discredit the current administration’s achievements. Such actions are not only unethical but also detrimental to the progress and unity of our state.
In light of the above, I call on all well-meaning citizens of Ondo State to disregard these unfounded allegations. The Majority Leader Ondo State House of Assembly stands in solidarity with Mrs. Isaac Omowunmi and reaffirms its confidence in her integrity and dedication to the service of our state.
As Legislators, we remain committed to our oversight functions and will continue to ensure that all government activities adhere to the principles of transparency and accountability. Any concerns or grievances should be channelled through appropriate legislative processes rather than resorting to unfounded and unwarranted public accusations.
Let us focus on collaborative efforts to advance Ondo State’s development and improve our people’s welfare.
Signed:
Hon. Oluwole Emmanuel Ogunmolasuyi
ODHA Majority Leader
Owo Constituency 1
Chairman, Southwest Majority Leaders Forum.
