Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has said that the need to take inventory of government’s property prompted the state Police Commissioner, Bolaji Salami, to obstruct the movement of his Deputy, Agboola Ajayi, on Saturday.
A video from the encounter has gone viral, with many criticizing Salami over the drama.
Akeredolu, however, said he had no hands in it.
But, according to a statement signed by the Chief Press secretary, Segun Ajiboye, the exercise was a normal routine where government’s property is involved.
The statement added:
“It should, however, be placed on records that it is a time-tested code in government’s business for officials to take inventory of offices and quarters before and after an official is moving in or out of offices or quarter.
“Accordingly, the Commissioner of Police intervention which was at the instance of an almost manipulated security apparatus at the Government House was most desirable to restore law and order.
“It becomes particularly worrisome and suspicious when aides of the Deputy Governor insisted on leaving the premises with items wrapped in unclear ownership as late as 11pm.
“Governor Akeredolu reiterates his commitment to the rights of all, including the Deputy Governor governor. But he has a duty to be firm and dispassionate in exercising the roles assigned to him.”
