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.
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As Nigeria moves toward full LG autonomy, Oyěbọ̀dé warns that without urgent reforms, “abuse would be imminent.”
