Human Rights Advocacy Group Condemns Removal of Osun State Chief Judge

Save the Poor and Needy Charity Initiative (SPANCI), a human rights advocacy group, has strongly criticized the removal of the Chief Judge of Osun State, Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo, by Governor Ademola Adeleke, deeming it illegal and unconstitutional.

In a statement released on Saturday, SPANCI denounced the removal as an executive-legislative conspiracy that undermines democracy, the rule of law, and the essential separation of powers.

Governor Adeleke’s recent announcement of the removal sparked concerns about the independence of the judiciary, as SPANCI President, Yemi Ezekiel Bello, expressed dissatisfaction with the decision. Bello asserted that such actions pose a threat to democracy and the principles of governance.

The statement from SPANCI emphasized the need for the immediate reversal of the Chief Judge’s removal, describing it as unconstitutional, unlawful, and an invitation to anarchy. Bello urged Governor Adeleke not to politicize crucial matters and cautioned against subjecting the judiciary to undue influence from the executive and legislative arms of government.

Bello stated, “If this illegality is allowed to stay, then the executive and legislative arms of government can conspire against the citizens and their human rights without obeying the court to suit their personal opinion as our courts and her orders will be useless, and our democracy is doomed as our legal and judicial system becomes a slave to both the executive and legislative.”

SPANCI demanded strict adherence to the constitution and the protection of the rule of law, highlighting the significance of upholding a democratic nation’s principles. The advocacy group stands firmly against any actions that compromise the integrity of the judiciary and citizens’ human rights.