The Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, is battling to clear his name following fresh corruption allegations as calls for his resignation intensify.
It is understood that Mr Oladiji is accused of receiving ₦44 million from the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) on behalf of the House, but failing to distribute the funds equitably among the members.
Although all members of the assembly belong to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the current contention may be linked to the internal politics surrounding the 2027 elections. Sources close to the assembly suggest Mr Oladiji is under significant pressure to step aside while colleagues push for a thorough investigation.
A source, who requested anonymity as they were not authorised to speak on the record, claimed the Speaker was expected to step down at the resumed plenary on Monday but changed his mind after consulting with political backers.
“The Speaker contemplated resigning on Monday but did not go ahead with it,” the source said. “The issue relates to an alleged ₦44 million released by OSOPADEC to the assembly. The money was intended for the entire House, but there are allegations that the Speaker did not involve other lawmakers in the management of the funds.”
