THE Ondo State House of Assembly, yesterday, told the embattled deputy governor of the state, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to defend himself on the allegations levelled against him just as it promised to follow due process during the impeachment process.

At Wednesday’s plenary, the lawmakers directed the Clerk of the House, Benjamin Jaiyola, to write a letter to the Deputy Governor to respond to allegations of gross misconduct levelled against him.

However, the lawmakers, in a statement by its Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Mr Olatunji Oshati, said: “An allegation letter does not equate to an impeachment verdict.”

Oshati said: “We find it necessary to address some misconceptions regarding the allegation letter served on the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

“It is crucial that our people understand that an allegation letter does not equate to an impeachment verdict.

“Indeed, the allegation letter served to the Deputy Governor marks the initiation of the impeachment proceedings.

“However, it is essential to remember that this is a procedure rooted in due process, not a hastily conducted impeachment.

“We are conscious of the integrity of our present assembly and will not falter in our constitutional responsibilities to our constituents.

“We wish to declare, unequivocally, that the entire process remains within the realm of allegations. We are committed to examining these allegations objectively.

“Our primary responsibility is to uphold the integrity of our beloved state and foster accountability and transparency, even at the highest levels of government.

“Consequently, we urge our constituents to refrain from making premature judgments. Neither the Deputy Governor nor the Governor is immune to legislative actions.

“The allegation letter has been served and Mr Deputy Governor has the right to defend himself. Rest assured, we are committed to following due process and will do so diligently.”