Civil Society Group Takes Legal Action Against Ondo State Assembly Amidst Governor’s Prolonged Absence

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Toba Owojaiye reporting 

Akure , Ondo State

 

A civil society group, Incorporated Trustee of Liberate Foundation International, along with concerned citizens, has filed a legal suit against the Speaker of Ondo State House of Assembly and all cabinet members of the Akeredolu-led administration. The group seeks judicial intervention due to Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu’s extended absence from office, which began on May 17, 2023, with no specified return date.

The Originating Motion, filed on November 22, 2023, at the state high court, outlines several reliefs, invoking constitutional provisions. Among them, an Order of Mandamus urges the State Executive Council to declare the Governor incapable of discharging duties due to serious ill health. Another mandates the appointment of a medical panel to verify the Governor’s alleged permanent incapacity.

Truth Live News gathered that the legal action further demanded that the Governor disclose his health status to the Executive Council, grant access to his medical records, and, alternatively, appoint the Deputy Governor to act in his stead, invoking constitutional provisions.

The Deputy Governor is called upon to convene the State Executive Council meeting to pass a resolution on the Governor’s capacity.

The group’s concerns extend beyond the Governor’s health, pointing to alleged questionable expenses during his medical treatment. Governor Akeredolu defended his administration’s approval of over N7.3 billion for “contingency” between July and September 2023, while in Germany for medical reasons. This follows reports of the government surpassing the approved budget for “contingency” by over N7.1 billion, sparking controversy and legal scrutiny.

The Governor’s sporadic appearances and the perceived influence of a shadowy cabal raise questions about the state’s governance. The public, while wishing him a speedy recovery, emphasizes the need for transparent and accountable governance, asserting that matters of state must not be sacrificed for personal gain.

As legal proceedings unfold, Ondo State finds itself at a critical juncture, grappling with constitutional intricacies and financial accountability concerns.

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