Adeleke’s Reversal on Acting CJ Appointment Draws APC’s Criticism

Governor Ademola Adeleke has recently backtracked on his decision to appoint an acting Chief Judge to replace Justice Adepele Ojo of Osun State. The suspension of Ojo was prompted by petitions filed against her, leading to the State House of Assembly’s request for her temporary replacement.

Initially, the governor’s spokesperson announced the appointment of Justice Olayinka Afolabi as the acting CJ, citing the approval of the house resolution. However, the swearing-in ceremony did not proceed as planned, with the government stating the necessity to follow proper procedures.

In a surprising turn of events, the state Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, revealed that Adeleke had not actually made an appointment for the acting Chief Judge. Instead, Adeleke had communicated to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, informing about the ongoing investigation and making a recommendation to the National Judicial Council for the appointment of an acting CJ.

Emphasizing Adeleke’s commitment to due process and the rule of law, the commissioner clarified the governor’s actions and assured the public that Adeleke would not disregard the constitution or the rule of law.

The conflicting developments have sparked a war of words between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party and the opposition All Progressives Congress in Osun. The APC criticized the governor for his alleged lack of understanding of the constitutional provisions, while the PDP expressed support for Adeleke and the House of Assembly’s handling of the CJ’s matter.

Meanwhile, Adeleke’s spokesman dismissed claims that the CJ’s troubles were related to her judgment in a high-profile murder case, countering that the judiciary’s crisis stemmed from allegations of misconduct against the Chief Judge.

However, the CJ’s counsel, Oladipo Olasope (SAN), raised concerns about the due process in her purported removal, indicating a lack of awareness regarding pending petitions against the CJ.