…You acted on wrong, unverified information – Adelegbe
By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
A heated controversy has erupted in Ondo State, pitting Rt. Rev’d Stephen Fagbemi, Diocesan Bishop of the Cathedral Church of Saint Andrew’s, Owo, against Otunba Timehin Adelegbe, the Federal Representative of Owo/Ose Constituency.
At the centre of the storm are allegations by the Bishop that the two-term lawmaker has become inaccessible to his constituents since assuming office over five years ago, a claim Adelegbe has fiercely denied.
The drama unfolded during a recent memorial service held at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Owo, in honour of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
In the presence of dignitaries, including Adelegbe himself, Bishop Fagbemi lamented the lawmaker’s perceived detachment from his electorate.
“You have not been accessible to those that vote for you since you went to Abuja,” the Bishop declared, adding, “Your number is no longer available again. Please let your number be accessible whenever we call you.”
While delivering his remarks, the Bishop also praised another legislator in attendance, Honourable Adegboyega Adefarati, representing Akoko South East/South West Federal Constituency, for his consistent efforts to uplift his constituents.
“I commend you, Honourable Adefarati, for all you have been doing for your people. They are proud of you,” the cleric remarked.
Bishop Fagbemi used the occasion to stress the importance of prioritising agriculture and security as critical solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.
However, his remarks about Adelegbe have dominated discussions, prompting an immediate and vehement response from the accused lawmaker.
Describing the Bishop’s comments as a “wicked rumour and blatant lie,” Adelegbe said he found it disheartening that such a statement came from a respected clergyman during a church service.
According to him, the Bishop must have acted on “wrong and unverified information from faceless people bent on destroying his credibility.”
“My line is always on. I pick all manner of calls, and if I’m busy, I return missed calls. I don’t know where this allegation is coming from because the Bishop has never called me without me answering,” Adelegbe stated.
He insisted he remains connected to his constituency, noting, “Owo is my home. It’s on record that I’ve been judged by the same constituents as a true representative who cares deeply for his people, considering my monumental achievements over the last six years.”
Adelegbe highlighted his recent activities, including the sixth edition of his mega empowerment programme, where constituents received tricycles, motorcycles, laptops, cash grants, and more.
He also cited completed and ongoing projects in the constituency, supported by a recent N300 million release to expedite their completion.
He noted that he spent over two weeks in Owo during the yuletide, engaging directly with his constituents.
The lawmaker further accused the Bishop of being misled by political detractors.
“One expects to hear a message of love, truth, and unity from the altar of God, not one borne out of shared hatred aimed at tarnishing someone’s image,” Adelegbe said.
He urged the Bishop to avoid being used by “faceless politicians” and focus on his divine calling to win souls for God.
The exchange has sparked widespread reactions within and beyond the Owo/Ose Constituency, with constituents and observers weighing in on the dispute.
While some back the Bishop’s call for greater accessibility, others view Adelegbe’s defence and achievements as evidence of his commitment to his people.
