Court Halts Ondo Assembly’s Attempt to Impeach Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa

The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an injunction to prevent the Ondo State House of Assembly from impeaching Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Deputy Governor of Ondo State. This ruling was delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite on Tuesday, following an ex-parte motion presented by Kayode Adewusi, the legal counsel representing Aiyedatiwa.

Judge Nwite’s ruling not only restrains the Ondo State House of Assembly from pursuing the impeachment of Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa but also places a prohibition on Governor Rotimi Akeredolu from nominating a new deputy.

During the court proceedings, Judge Nwite expressed the belief that granting the application was in line with the interests of justice. He stated, “Therefore, the application of the applicant succeeds,” as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Furthermore, the judge issued an interim injunction order that prevents Governor Akeredolu, his representatives, or associates from harassing, intimidating, embarrassing, or obstructing Aiyedatiwa in the execution of his duties as the Deputy Governor of Ondo State. The case has been adjourned to October 9 for further proceedings.

This legal move by Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa comes after the Ondo State House of Assembly served him an impeachment notice on Monday. Olamide Oladiji, the Speaker of the House, disclosed that Aiyedatiwa had been served through substituted service. The Assembly’s decision to initiate impeachment proceedings against Aiyedatiwa was based on allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

It’s worth noting that Aiyedatiwa had assumed responsibilities for the state while Governor Akeredolu was on a three-month medical leave in Germany. Upon the governor’s return to Nigeria, he terminated the employment of media aides attached to the Deputy Governor’s office. This development occurred amid rumors of a growing discord between Aiyedatiwa and Akeredolu. However, the Deputy Governor publicly refuted these rumors, affirming his loyalty to the Governor.

The legal battle surrounding Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s impeachment has now taken center stage in Ondo State politics, with implications for the state’s governance and the relationship between its top officials. The outcome of the case scheduled for October 9 will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in the coming weeks.