Activist Adeolu Oyebọode takes chairman to court over transparency demands

Ikere LG gate controversy escalates as Adéolú Oyěbọ̀dé sues chairman under Ekiti FOI law, demanding transparency, budget records, and public accountability

Ikere LG gate controversy has taken a dramatic turn, as Adéolú Oyěbọ̀dé, a civic-minded activist, has dragged the Local Government Chairman to court over alleged lack of transparency regarding the cost of a recently unveiled Secretariat gate.

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The newly-painted gate, once a symbol of political performance, has now become a flashpoint for public accountability.

Amidst community whispers placing its cost between ₦15 million and ₦35 million, Oyěbọ̀dé filed a Freedom of Information request under Ekiti State law — but received no response.

Rather than speculate or fuel rumors, Oyěbọ̀dé chose the legal route. He emphasizes this isn’t political vengeance or rebellion, but a constitutional duty.

“Governance is not a favour,” he said. *“It is a duty. And asking questions is a civic right, not an act of disloyalty.”

In his case filed at the Ekiti State High Court, he seeks four things: confirmation of his right to access the records, a declaration that the Chairman has no power to withhold them, a court order for release, and reimbursement for legal costs.

Oyěbọ̀dé also made it clear that his action isn’t an attack on Governor Biodun Oyebanji, whom he praises for non-interference in LG finances.

Instead, he underscores the need for a change in local government culture — one that is currently marred by opaque spending, weak accountability, and unchecked discretion.