In a surprising move that defies a court order, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has appointed Justice Olayinka Afolabi as the acting Chief Judge of the state, effective immediately.
This announcement comes despite the National Industrial Court in Ibadan issuing an order restraining the Osun State Government from terminating the appointment of Justice Adepele Ojo as chief judge.
Justice J.D. Peter of the National Industrial Court had also directed the government to continue paying the salary entitlements, emoluments, and other benefits of the chief judge. However, Governor Adeleke proceeded with the appointment of Afolabi following the resolution of the state House of Assembly on Thursday to suspend Ojo over allegations of misconduct.
The Deputy-Governor, Kola Adewusi, has been tasked with performing the swearing-in ceremony for the Acting Chief Judge on Friday. The decision to suspend Ojo is based on allegations of misconduct, abuse of power, corruption, and disregard for the rule of law.
Ojo has been requested to step aside pending the investigation of these allegations by the assembly. The assembly’s resolution calls for the next in order of seniority to Ojo to be sworn in immediately to avoid any vacuum in the third arm of government.
Crediblenews recalls that the coalition of civil society organisations in Osun had on Wednesday accused the governor of plotting to remove the CJ.
The lawmakers have also directed their committee on Judiciary, Public Petitions, and Legal Matters to investigate the Chief Judge by inviting her within seven days from Thursday. The executive has been mandated to notify the National Judicial Council and the State Judicial Service Commission of these resolutions.
It’s worth noting that a coalitionat a press conference of civil society organizations in Osun had accused the governor of plotting to remove the CJ earlier, but the state government denied the allegation. The Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation emphasized the government’s commitment to due process and the principle of the separation of powers.
The situation remains tense as the legal and political ramifications unfold in the state.
Crediblenews.ng
