By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo
The Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, has categorically denied allegations by a self-acclaimed human rights group that he was placed on administrative bail by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged diversion of local government funds during the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.
Reacting to the claims made by the Centre for Human Rights and Social Justice (CHRSJ), Alimi described the report as baseless, politically motivated, and a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation.
The commissioner was responding to a statement issued by the group’s Deputy General Secretary, Comrade Abiola Ganiyu, which accused him and others of facilitating the alleged diversion of over ₦600 billion in local government allocations between January 2011 and December 2014 by purportedly suspending democratic structures in the local councils at the time.
“While I typically choose to ignore such malicious fabrications, it would be irresponsible to remain silent in this case and allow members of the public to assume guilt where there is none. I therefore make it abundantly clear that I was never at any time under administrative bail by the EFCC or any other anti-graft agency — not during my tenure as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs under Governor Aregbesola, and certainly not now.”
He described the allegations as “spurious, unserious, and laughable,” insisting that the CHRSJ’s claims were not only false but part of a broader pattern of politically inspired blackmail against public officials.
“This is not the first time I’ve been falsely accused. But as always, the truth will prevail and expose these attempts for what they are — a failed smear campaign. These faceless blackmailers are clearly desperate to malign my person and undermine my integrity, which has remained intact and untainted through years of public service.”
Alimi further declared his readiness for scrutiny:
“For the avoidance of doubt, I, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, am ready for any investigation, any time, any day, to prove the baselessness of these accusations. I have nothing to hide, and I stand by my record.”
He concluded by urging the public to disregard the “malicious publication” and reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, service, and the rule of law.