Osun State Government Refutes Allegations of Governor’s Involvement in Chief Judge Suspension over allegations of misappropriation.
In the aftermath of the suspension of Osun State Chief Judge, Justice Oyebola Ojo, the state government has categorically denied allegations that Governor Ademola Adeleke was responsible for the decision. The government, through the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, released a statement on Friday refuting claims that the Governor had suspended Justice Ojo.
The suspension came on Thursday, November 16, with the appointment of Justice Yinka Afolabi to act in the capacity of Chief Judge pending the completion of an investigation by the Osun State House of Assembly. Earlier reports had suggested that Justice Ojo sought a restraining order from the National Industrial Court (NIC) in Ibadan, but the government maintains that the petition and preliminary actions have been forwarded to the National Judicial Council (NJC).
According to Alimi, Governor Adeleke has not defied any court order, emphasizing that the State House of Assembly, which confirmed Justice Ojo’s appointment, is not party to any ongoing legal proceedings. Alimi clarified, “The Governor only acted on the resolution of the House. To ensure there is no vacuum, the Governor appointed an Acting Chief Judge, as prescribed by the Constitution in a situation like this.”
The Commissioner further explained that the State Assembly, recognizing the need for an impartial investigation, requested the Chief Judge to step aside during the inquiry. Alimi stated, “It is therefore the responsibility of the State Assembly to inform the public, NJC, and the Governor about its findings, on the conclusion of its investigation, and also make resolutions on the next line of action.”
He also addressed the misrepresentation in some sections of the media, asserting, “We want to put it on record that the Governor is a law-abiding person and will not do anything to compromise the rule of law. Whenever the court processes are served on the persons listed as Defendants in the alleged suit (if any), they would take appropriate steps to react.”
