The Inter Party Advisory Council in Osun State on Saturday announced the suspension of its Deputy Chairman, Mr. Femi Adesuyi, for the alleged diversion of palliatives given to the group by the state government to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
Adesuyi, who is the chairman of the Zenith Labour Party in the state, however, dismissed the suspension, describing it as a media trial with no substance.
The ZLP chairman had represented IPAC on the committee set up by the Osun State Government to distribute food items given to the state by the Federal Government as palliative.
IPAC sources said that Adesuyi was given 50 bags, but delivered only 35 and allegedly kept 15 bags. That made IPAC set up a committee headed by the Accord Party, Victor Akande, to investigate the matter.
A statement signed by Chairman and Secretary of Osun IPAC, Mr. Wale Adebayo and Dr. Tosin Odeyemi, respectively, said Adesuyi’s actions undermined the integrity of the group.
It further read, “It was unanimously agreed among the members present during our last meeting that Engr. Femi Adesuyi should go on suspension for six months.
“This decision aims to uphold the principles of accountability and transparency within our noble council, by ensuring that no member is above the laws and regulations set forth by IPAC.
“In light of this resolution, we will be writing to IPAC National, providing them with a comprehensive explanation regarding the suspension of Engr. Femi Adesuyi. Additionally, we will copy his political party at the national level, INEC, the Nigerian Police Force, DSS, and OSSIEC, to ensure that all relevant parties are aware of this action taken by IPAC.”
Reacting, Adesuyi, who said the allegation against him was untrue, noted that he was not given a fair hearing before IPAC passed its judgement.
His statement further read, “I would like to state that the allegation is false and unfounded. Let me state that the 50 bags of rice given were meant for Imole Collaborators and IPAC. 15 bags were given to Imole Collaborators, while 35 were given to IPAC. There is nothing like diversion as claimed in their release.
“However, nobody has ever written or summoned me for any discussion. And no one has suspended me from IPAC. The process for suspension is clearly stated in the IPAC code of conduct.”
