By Philemon Amos

The Labour Party in Osun State has taken action against its Chairman, Prince Bello Adebayo, following accusations of embezzling N34 million allocated for party agents during the 2023 general election. Adebayo has been suspended pending further investigation into the matter. Hammed Sheriff, Chairman of Ward 12 in Osogbo local government, raised additional concerns regarding Adebayo’s alleged involvement in anti-party activities and repeated absences from ward meetings without providing valid explanations. The party’s decision reflects its commitment to maintaining transparency and accountability within its ranks.Following the suspension of Prince Bello Adebayo, the Chairman of the Labour Party in Osun State, the party’s chairmen from various local government areas, led by Raheem Taiwo-Ojo, expressed their support and confidence in the Acting State Chairman, Chief Sussan Ojo. They disassociated themselves from what they deemed an “illegal suspension” of the party’s National Legal Adviser, Akingbade Oyelekan, and Chief Sussan Ojo, orchestrated by Adebayo.

In addition to the suspension, Chief Sussan Ojo raised concerns about the mismanagement of funds within the party. It was alleged that the N4 million designated for publicity, which was released by the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to Adebayo, had not been paid to the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council as intended. Such financial irregularities undermine the party’s integrity and raise questions about accountability.

The actions taken by the party’s chairmen and Chief Sussan Ojo reflect their commitment to upholding transparency and ethical practices within the Labour Party. Further investigations are expected to shed light on these allegations and ensure that the party’s funds are appropriately utilized for the benefit of the party and its members.Chief Sussan Ojo, the acting state chairman, further revealed that the N30 million allocated for polling agents, which was entrusted to Adebayo, had been misappropriated after the election took place.

However, Adebayo vehemently denied these allegations, asserting that he had only received a sum of three hundred thousand naira (N300,000). He emphasized that the evidence of this transaction exists and encouraged anyone interested to reach out to Chief Akinosun Tokun, who facilitated the transfer. Adebayo maintained that apart from this particular amount, he was unaware of any other financial matters related to the January presidential campaign. He firmly expressed his belief that those involved in his suspension had no legal authority to take such action against elected officials in Osun.

These conflicting statements highlight the differing perspectives regarding the alleged embezzlement of funds within the Labour Party. It remains crucial for a thorough investigation to take place in order to ascertain the truth behind the allegations and establish accountability. Only through an impartial inquiry can the facts be uncovered and the appropriate measures be taken to address the situation.