In a decisive move to strengthen transparency and accountability in public service, the Ondo State Government has organized a workshop for public officers in the local governments to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act.
Speaking at the workshop held in Akure on Thursday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described the programme as a critical platform for reinforcing the ethical values that underpin credible, transparent, and people-centred governance.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, emphasized that asset declaration must be taken seriously by all public office holders, particularly those entrusted with the management of public funds at the grassroots level.
“This workshop underscores our collective determination to entrench ethical governance, strengthen institutional accountability, and decisively confront the menace of corruption in public service,” the governor stated.
According to him, “the workshop is coming at a time when citizens rightly demand transparency, integrity, and responsible management of public resources, the training serves as a timely intervention to reinforce the values that define credible governance”
Governor Aiyedatiwa further noted that his administration is determined to reform local government administration by enforcing strict adherence to the rule of law, financial discipline, and uncompromising compliance with the Code of Conduct for Public Officers.
“Our administration is resolute in changing the narrative of public service delivery through comprehensive local government reforms anchored on accountability, transparency, and respect for due process,” he said.
He reassured the people of Ondo State that his government maintains zero tolerance for corruption.
“The Ondo state government places a high premium on institutional strengthening, ethical leadership, and zero tolerance for corruption. This training programme aligns perfectly with our broader local government reform agenda, which seeks to build capacity, instil discipline, and ensure that public resources translate into tangible benefits for our people across the state,” the governor added.
In his opening remarks, Federal Commissioner representing the South-West on the Board of the Code of Conduct Bureau, Taofik Abdulsalam, commended the Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for collaborating with the Bureau to organize the workshop.
Abdulsalam advised the state government to consider extending similar training to members of the State Executive Council to deepen their understanding of the Code of Conduct Act and further strengthen ethical governance across all tiers of government.
On his part, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Dele Aladesanmi, disclosed that the training brought together key decision-makers and accounting officers from the 18 Local Government Areas of the state.
According to him, participants included Council Chairmen, Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGAs), Directors of Finance and Supplies (DFS), Leaders of Legislative Councils, and other principal officers.
Takuro urged participants to take full advantage of the workshop by actively engaging in discussions, seeking necessary clarifications, and internalizing the principles and guidelines being shared.
Highlights of the event included paper presentations by seasoned resource persons drawn from diverse backgrounds, including officials of the Code of Conduct Bureau.
Fidelis David
Follow us on:
