As the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State approaches, tensions within the state government are intensifying, particularly surrounding the actions of the State Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowumi Isaac.
The controversy has prompted the Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), a pro-democracy group, to call for her removal, citing her alleged negative impact on governance.
The CCM, led by its coordinator Comrade Adewale Kareem, has urged Ilaje leaders to intervene and “rescue” their son, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, from the growing crisis that could threaten both his administration and his candidacy for re-election as the flagbearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Kareem highlighted a “crisis of confidence” within the governor’s cabinet, accusing Mrs. Isaac of poor leadership, which has allegedly resulted in delays across several ministries and state projects.
He added that the governor appears “helpless” in the face of the commissioner’s alleged high-handedness, which he claimed has stalled progress on key state initiatives.
The CCM has called on the Finance Commissioner to appear before the State House of Assembly to address unresolved financial issues and warned of potential consequences if she fails to do so.
“We must hold her accountable for the financial decisions affecting our state’s development,” Kareem said.
One of the central concerns is the alleged withholding of funds meant for critical ministries, leading to significant project delays. Key issues include postponed teacher recruitment, delayed payment of WAEC examination fees resulting in the withholding of students’ results, and the stalled renovation of the Akure Township Stadium. The Sunshine Football Club has been forced to relocate to Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, due to the lack of funds for stadium improvements.
“The governor had approved funds for the stadium’s upgrade, but the commissioner’s delay led to inflation affecting both the contractor’s budget and the club’s operations,” Kareem explained.
There is also unrest among state workers, who are reportedly dissatisfied with the delay in receiving their 2024 leave bonuses, despite the governor’s approval weeks ago. Kareem has called on anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC to investigate Mrs. Isaac’s actions, stating that “the welfare of Ondo State hangs in the balance.”
The CCM further pointed to a strained relationship between the governor and the commissioner. Despite Isaac’s past support in blocking impeachment attempts against Aiyedatiwa during his tenure as deputy governor, the group warned that her previous contributions do not shield her from scrutiny, particularly when the governor’s image and administration are at risk.
The CCM suggested that the governor should consider relieving Mrs. Isaac of her position while compensating her for past efforts. “A woman who is fighting everyone—from the governor’s appointees to civil servants and contractors—does not have the state’s best interests at heart,” the group stated.
In a call to action, the group urged Ilaje leaders to rally behind the governor and help stabilize his administration in the face of internal discord. “With the election fast approaching, it’s vital for the Ilaje community to support the governor and ensure stability within his government,” Kareem emphasized.
As the election nears, the CCM warned that Ondo State’s future hangs in the balance, with the public demanding transparency and a resolution to the growing crisis. Without swift action, the group fears the state’s narrative of progress could quickly turn into a scandal.