Weeks after imposing a ban on foreign travel for government officials due to financial constraints, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has embarked on a trip to the United States for medical reasons, THE WHISTLER has learnt.
On October 23, 2023, Adeleke announced a suspension of all non-essential foreign travel for government officials until the end of the year, citing financial constraints and plans to invest heavily in infrastructure.
“Foreign trips for top officials for the rest of the year are hereby suspended unless there is a direct emergency to be authorized by the governor,” Adeleke stated during a State Executive Council meeting.
He emphasized the need for austerity measures, urging cabinet members and other officials of the administration to make personal sacrifices in light of the state’s challenging financial situation.
“Our needs from office to accommodation are much, but our resources are limited,” Adeleke remarked. “So we have to devise a coping mechanism pending the time our funding situation improves.”
However, findings by THE WHISTLER revealed that Adeleke travelled to the United States in the second week of November for knee surgery.
According to high-ranking government sources, Adeleke is expected to remain in the United States until December or possibly January for proper recovery following the surgery.
This may prevent Adeleke from attending his one-year anniversary ceremony, scheduled for November 27, 2023.
— The Whistler