In a resolute statement, the Ondo State House of Assembly confirmed its commitment to the Constitution during its investigation of allegations of gross misconduct against Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. This announcement followed the Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola’s decision not to form a probe panel due to an interim order from the Abuja Federal High Court.
Majority Leader, Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, commented in Akure, “Although the ex parte order was expected to lapse on Tuesday, we will further review it. Section 188 of the 1999 constitution, as amended, provides a clear directive on impeaching a state’s governor or deputy. We remain dedicated to this constitutional pathway.”
Justice Odusola, when explaining his reluctance, cited the Constitution’s Section 287(3). In a letter dated October 6, 2023, addressed to the Assembly’s Speaker, Olamide Oladiji, he noted, “On September 28, I received an interim injunction order from the Federal High Court in Abuja. This injunction, stemming from a case dated September 26, prevents the formation of any probe panel concerning this matter.”
He continued by highlighting Section 188(10) of the Constitution, which suggests that no court should interfere with the proceedings of the Assembly or its determinations. “However,” Justice Odusola added, “a Court order remains in effect unless overruled by a similar court or an appellate one.”
This development adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing political situation in Ondo, underscoring the importance of constitutional adherence and the rule of law.
