The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has strongly criticized Governor Ademola Adeleke for nullifying the selection process that led to the emergence of Oba Adegboyega Famodun as the Owa of Igbajo.
APC party has described the governor’s action as an abuse of executive power and a violation of the separation of powers enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
In a statement released by Tajudeen Lawal, the Osun APC expressed its dismay at Governor Adeleke’s Executive Order issued on November 27, 2022, which directed Oba Famodun and two other traditional rulers appointed by former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola to step aside from their palaces.
APC highlighted that the ongoing legal proceedings did not deter the governor from taking such drastic actions.
The Osun State Government, in a White Paper report, recently canceled the selection processes that produced three Osun monarchs, including the Aree of Iree, Akirun of Ikinrun, and Owa of Igbajo, directing that the selection processes be restarted.
The APC condemned Governor Adeleke’s intervention, stating that it not only disregarded the ongoing legal process but also undermined the constitutional principle of separation of powers.
The party accused the governor of acting as a “meddlesome interloper” and questioned the timing and motive behind his actions.
Furthermore, the party emphasized that Oba Adegboyega Famodun, before his selection as the Owa of Igbajo, had served as a former Chairman of the APC in the state, adding a political dimension to the controversy.
Ruling Houses in Iree Disapprove of Osun State Government’s Decision on Aree of Iree Stool
In a related development, the ruling houses in Iree, Boripe local government area of Osun State, have expressed dissatisfaction with the recent White Paper issued by the state government concerning the Aree of Iree stool.
They have urged the people of the town to remain calm in the face of the perceived provocation and asserted their belief that the White Paper would not withstand legal scrutiny.
The ruling houses criticized the state government for adjudicating on a matter that is already before the court, labeling it as a “double standard” and an affront to the judiciary.
They highlighted the impending judgment by a competent court and rejected the government’s interference in the traditional selection process.
Gbenga Olatunji, the Secretary of the ruling houses in Iree, emphasized their trust in the judiciary to uphold justice and expressed confidence that the White Paper would be overturned.
He called on the people, especially the ruling houses, to maintain peace and abide by the law while awaiting the court’s decision.
Former Commissioner Condemns Osun State Government’s White Paper
Adding to the chorus of disapproval, Adebayo Adeleke, a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, condemned the Osun State Government’s White Paper, labeling it as futile.
He accused Governor Ademola Adeleke of displaying ignorance of the law and disrespecting the judicial process.
Adebayo Adeleke criticized the governor for interfering in a matter that is sub judice and stated that the government’s actions amount to contempt of court.
He highlighted the gravity of the situation, pointing out that such actions undermine the integrity of the judiciary.
In conclusion, the APC and other stakeholders have strongly criticized Governor Ademola Adeleke’s handling of the traditional selection process in Osun State, accusing him of overstepping his executive authority and disregarding the rule of law.
The unfolding events surrounding the nullification of the selection processes for the Owa of Igbajo and the Aree of Iree stools continue to generate controversy and raise concerns about the respect for due process and the independence of the judiciary in the state.
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