Ondo State governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has sacked Mr. Adeboye Taofiq Ewenla, his Special Assistant on Forestry (Central Senatorial District), for allegedly demanding N30million bribe from timber merchants.
Ewenla was reportedly caught on tape demanding the gratification before the Ondo timber merchants be allowed to operate.
Reports said the telephone conversation was sent to Governor Aiyedatiwa after the merchants opted for a showdown.
In the conversation with a timber merchant, the source said Ewenla was heard telling the traders not to begin any operation in forest without paying the money.
Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to Aiyedatiwa, said the sack followed allegations of bribery and intimidation leveled against Ewenla by some timber merchants in the State.
He disclosed through a statement that Governor Aiyedatiwa has ordered a probe into the activities of those saddled with the responsibility of managing forest reserves in the State.
“A replacement for Mr. Ewenla will be announced in due course.
“The governor urged all political appointees to conduct themselves in line with the provisions of the law and rules guiding their duties,” the statement reads in parts.