…Appoints Oyadeyi, Adeyekun as Deputy Clerks
The Ondo State House of Assembly has confirmed Dr. Tunde Charles Ojuolape as the Auditor-General for Local Governments.
The confirmation followed the adoption of the report of the House Committee on Selection at plenary on Tuesday, presided over by the Speaker, Chief Olamide Oladiji. Dr. Ojuolape had earlier appeared before the committee for screening.
Presenting the report, the Deputy Speaker and Vice Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Ololade Gbegudu, informed the House that the nominee was found physically, mentally and emotionally fit to assume the responsibilities of the office.
He stated that Dr. Ojuolape satisfied all constitutional and professional requirements, having successfully undergone the necessary screening process.
According to the committee’s findings, the nominee possesses the requisite academic qualifications, administrative capacity and professional experience to effectively discharge the duties of Auditor-General for Local Governments.
The committee expressed confidence in his ability to promote transparency, accountability and due process in the management of local government finances across the state.
The Leader of the House, Chief Olatunji Oshati, subsequently moved a motion for his confirmation, which was seconded by the Deputy Speaker. The motion received overwhelming support from lawmakers.
The Speaker and other members described Dr. Ojuolape as “a round peg in a round hole,” noting that his wealth of experience in public service and sound knowledge of financial regulations would strengthen the office.
They expressed optimism that his leadership would reinforce internal control mechanisms, improve fiscal discipline and ensure prudent management of public funds at the grassroots level.
Lawmakers also underscored the critical role of the Office of the Auditor-General for Local Governments in safeguarding statutory allocations to councils and ensuring that such funds are judiciously utilised for projects that directly benefit the people.
In his response, Dr. Ojuolape expressed gratitude to God and appreciated the State Governor and the Assembly for the confidence reposed in him.
He pledged to work diligently to justify the appointment and to uphold professionalism, accountability and strict compliance with public finance laws in the discharge of his duties.
Meanwhile, a bill seeking to enact the Ondo State Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Law, 2025 scaled first reading during plenary.
The proposed legislation aims to provide a clear legal framework for the collection of taxes and levies by the state and local governments, as well as streamline revenue generation and curb multiple taxation.
At the sitting, the Speaker also announced the appointment of two staff members as Deputy Clerks of the Assembly. Chief Olusegun Oyadeyi was appointed Deputy Clerk, Legislative Business and Proceedings, while Mr. Richard Adeyekun was named Deputy Clerk, Plenary, Legislative Business and Proceedings.
The Speaker explained that the appointments were in line with existing laws and the administrative needs of the Assembly.
He urged the new Deputy Clerks to deploy their experience and commitment towards strengthening legislative processes, documentation and institutional efficiency.
He emphasised that a strong and efficient legislative bureaucracy remains essential to the smooth conduct of parliamentary business and the overall effectiveness of the House.
