By Dayo Johnson

Akure—LOCAL government election is to hold this year in Ondo State, six years after this administration assumes office.

To this end the state government has earmarked the sum of N800 million for the conduct of the election.

Governor Olusegun Mimiko said this while presenting this year’s budget estimate of N130 billion to the state House of Assembly in Akure.

Mimiko described as unfortunate that his administration has not been able to conduct council elections in the past six years.

According to him; “This is not unconnected with the legal encumbrances placed on our path.

“It is, however, gladding to note that as a result of the recent political re-alignments in the state, all the legal impediments are being amicably resolved.

“The horizon has become clear that local government election will be a joyous reality this year.

“Hence the sum of N800m has been provided for the conduct of local government election this year.”

Meanwhile, this years estimate indicated a sharp reduction of 23 per cent over last year’s budget of N168 billion.