By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, has dismissed allegations of misappropriating ₦3.7 billion while serving under former Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

Alimi’s response follows accusations leveled against him by the former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs under ex-Governor Gboyega Oyetola, Adebayo Adeleke, popularly known as Banik, who alleged that the Information Commissioner was involved in financial misconduct.

In a statement, Alimi categorically denied any wrongdoing, describing Adeleke’s claims as baseless and an attempt to smear his reputation. 

He challenged Adeleke to provide evidence of the alleged fraud to anti-corruption agencies instead of resorting to media propaganda.

Alimi further revealed his intention to take legal action against Adeleke for defamation, insisting that he was never a signatory to any local government account during his tenure. 

He clarified that financial operations were managed by the Director-General of Finance, stressing that the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) operates independently of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

He accused Adeleke of using ALGON as a political tool to tarnish his image and advised him to cooperate with ongoing investigations rather than making unfounded allegations.

The controversy comes amid the Osun State Government’s recent petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), calling for a probe into alleged financial irregularities under the Oyetola administration. 

The petition reportedly implicates former officials, including Adeleke, over alleged mismanagement of funds earmarked for the renovation of 320 primary healthcare centres, with claims that contracts were awarded without due process to companies linked to political figures.

The face-off between Alimi and Adeleke highlights the intensifying scrutiny of past financial dealings in the state, underscoring the need for thorough investigations to ensure accountability and restore public confidence.