The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, issued a restraining order preventing the Ondo State House of Assembly from pursuing the impeachment of Deputy Governor Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa on allegations of gross misconduct. This development came in response to an ex parte motion presented by Aiyedatiwa’s counsel, Kayode Adewusi, before Justice Emeka Nwite.
Justice Nwite, after considering Adewusi’s argument, also extended the restraining order to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, preventing him from nominating a new deputy governor or forwarding any such nomination to the legislative body for approval. These actions will remain on hold until the substantive matter is heard and determined.
The court’s decision was grounded in the belief that granting this application would serve the interests of justice. All of Aiyedatiwa’s requested reliefs were granted, and the matter was adjourned until October 9 for a full hearing.
Meanwhile, in response to the impeachment proceedings initiated against Aiyedatiwa by the state House of Assembly, hundreds of Ilaje community indigenes in Ondo State rallied in the state capital, Akure, to protest against these actions. They expressed their support for the embattled deputy governor, who is also an Ilaje, by chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards that conveyed their message.
The protesters alleged that the impeachment process was a scheme to remove Aiyedatiwa from contention in the 2024 gubernatorial election. They emphasized the importance of allowing him to complete his term as deputy governor.
While no member of the House addressed the protesters, the Akure Area Commander of the Ondo State Police Command urged the demonstrators to maintain peace and avoid any infiltration by miscreants.
Additionally, some former members of the Ondo State House of Assembly, operating under the Concerned All Progressives Congress’ Ex-Lawmakers in Ondo State, criticized the Assembly’s focus on impeachment proceedings at this early stage of its tenure. They urged the current Assembly members to prioritize the pressing issues facing the state and refrain from causing chaos.
Furthermore, the Ondo State Consciousness Movement issued a warning to the members of the Ondo State House of Assembly, cautioning them against becoming tools for political agendas. The group emphasized the importance of adhering to constitutional principles and pursuing justice in all legislative actions, despite reported conflicts between Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Deputy Governor Aiyedatiwa stemming from the latter’s alleged gubernatorial ambitions.