By Bukola Olamona

The Coalition of Ilaje Youth Groups has thrown its weight behind the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Olawunmi Isaac, passing a vote of confidence in their leadership.

Addressing journalists at the NUJ Press Centre, Adegbemile, Akure, the coalition dismissed a recent publication questioning the integrity of the governor and the finance commissioner, describing it as baseless and politically motivated.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, the President of the Federation of Ugboland Youth, Comrade Samson Ewajane, discredited the purported Igbalaye Youth Group, which, he said, allegedly authored the article, labeling it as non-existent.

“After conducting a thorough investigation, we discovered that the so-called Igbalaye Youth Group is fictitious and has no presence in Ilaje. The article and its authors are mere fabrications aimed at tarnishing the reputations of the governor and the finance commissioner,” Ewajane stated.

He accused unnamed political actors of orchestrating a smear campaign to create division between the people of Ilaje and Owo.

“This is a deliberate attempt by fifth columnists to sow discord and incite animosity. But their plans have failed. The Ilaje people remain at peace with Owo and the entire Ondo State,” he added.

The coalition reaffirmed its confidence in the finance commissioner, commending her for her dedication to duty in the face of what it described as political sabotage.

“We have unanimously passed a vote of confidence in the finance commissioner for her steadfast commitment to the state’s financial management, despite the machinations of political vampires seeking to exploit Ondo State’s treasury,” Ewajane declared.

The group also reiterated its unwavering support for Governor Aiyedatiwa, warning against further attempts to distract his administration.

“We caution against malicious efforts to derail this government and urge citizens to remain vigilant. We stand firmly behind the governor’s developmental agenda and encourage all well-meaning Ondo residents to do the same.”

The coalition called on the public to disregard the controversial article, assuring them of its commitment to the progress and development of Ondo State.