In a significant step toward promoting transparency and accountability in public service, the Ondo State Government has organised a workshop for local government officials aimed at ensuring strict compliance with the provisions of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act.
Speaking at the event on Thursday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described the programme as a vital platform for reinforcing ethical values that underpin credible, transparent, and people-centered governance.
Represented at the workshop by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor emphasised the importance of asset declaration, particularly for officials 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,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He added that the initiative came at a time when citizens increasingly demand integrity, transparency, and responsible management of public resources, describing the training as a timely intervention to reinforce these values.
The governor also stated that his administration is committed to reforming local government administration by enforcing strict adherence to the rule of law, financial discipline, and 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 Ondo State residents that his government maintains a zero-tolerance approach to 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, instill discipline, and ensure that public resources translate into tangible benefits for our people across the state,” the governor added.
In his opening remarks, Taofik Abdulsalam, the Federal Commissioner representing the South-West on the Board of the Code of Conduct Bureau, praised the Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for partnering with the Bureau to organize the workshop.
He suggested that similar training be extended to members of the State Executive Council to deepen their understanding of the Code of Conduct Act and further strengthen ethical governance across all levels of government.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Dele Aladesanmi, disclosed that the training convened key decision-makers and accounting officers from all 18 local government areas of the state.
Takuro urged attendees to actively participate in discussions, seek clarifications, and internalize the principles and guidelines being shared.
Participants included Council Chairmen, Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGAs), Directors of Finance and Supplies (DFS), legislative leaders, and other principal officers.
The event featured paper presentations by seasoned resource persons from diverse backgrounds, including officials of the Code of Conduct Bureau, providing participants with practical insights into ethical governance, accountability, and compliance with statutory regulations.
