ALGON Dismisses Petition Against Adeleke’s Aides, Alleges Political Smear Campaign

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ALGON Dismisses Petition Against Adeleke’s Aides, Alleges Political Smear Campaign

By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo

The Osun State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has dismissed a petition calling for the investigation of aides and family members of Governor Ademola Adeleke, describing it as a politically motivated smear campaign.

The petition, reportedly submitted by a group identified as Osun Youths Initiative for Good Governance (OYIGG), urged anti-graft agencies to probe individuals linked to the governor.

However, ALGON questioned the credibility of the group, alleging that it is unregistered and driven by political interests.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, ALGON said the petition was baseless and intended to mislead the public.

“The so-called petition and call on anti-graft agencies by this faceless group is nothing but an embarrassing display of ignorance, desperation, and political mischief,” the statement read.

“It exposes the ulterior motives of those hiding under the guise of civil society to push a predetermined agenda.”

The association maintained that Osun State has continued to receive positive ratings from independent organisations on fiscal transparency and governance.

“For the avoidance of doubt, credible platforms such as BudgIT and the Open Government Partnership have consistently rated Osun State highly in fiscal transparency, budget performance, and project delivery,” ALGON stated.

“These are verifiable facts, not the concoctions of a roadside pressure group assembled for propaganda.”

ALGON also accused the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) of being behind the allegations, claiming the party had resorted to disinformation due to a lack of credible issues to present to the public.

“It is evident that the opposition, now bereft of credible talking points, has resorted to hiding behind a faceless and ineffective group to peddle falsehoods,” the statement added.

“This pattern of blackmail and misinformation has become their only surviving strategy.”

The association further criticised attempts to implicate the governor’s family members, describing such claims as defamatory and irresponsible.

“The reckless attempt to drag respected individuals, including members of the governor’s family, into baseless allegations only underscores the depth of desperation,” ALGON said.

“Such unsubstantiated claims are not only defamatory but also a disservice to public discourse.”

ALGON urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to remain focused and not be distracted by politically motivated petitions.

“We urge anti-graft agencies to remain professional and not be swayed by attempts to create unnecessary media sensationalism,” the statement noted.

The association added that residents of the state are aware of ongoing developments and improvements in governance.

“The people of Osun State are discerning and cannot be deceived. They are witnesses to the visible strides of development and the transparent governance being delivered,” ALGON stated.

ALGON called on the public to disregard the petition and continue to support the administration’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and people oriented development.