Adeleke Suspends Osun Chief Judge Over Allegations Of Misconduct, Corruption

By Ayodele Oni

Following the suspension of the Chief Judge of Osun state, Justice Adepele Adebola Ojo, Governor Ademola Adeleke has announced Justice Olayinka David Afolabi as the Acting Chief Judge of the State.

Adeleke made the appointment known via a statement on Thursday by his Spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

The statement reads: “Governor Ademola Adeleke has appointed Justice Olayinka David Afolabi as the acting Chief Judge of Osun state with immediate effect following the approval of the resolution of the House of Assembly.”

Earlier, Olamide Tiamiyu,  Press Secretary to the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun had in a statement said the House recommended the removal of the Chief Judge, Justice Adepele Adebola Ojo.

Tiamiyu said the decision was taken during the plenary on Thursday. The House, also, resolved that pending the outcome of the investigation, the Chief Judge of Osun State Honourable Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo should step aside, not for any disciplinary action, but to allow for proper investigation.

“This House decision is in line with the investigative powers vested on the House of Assembly by the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).”

The Executive Arm was also advised to immediately swear in the next Judge in order of seniority as the Acting Chief Judge of Osun State in order not to create a vacuum in the office.

The executive was also advised to notify the National Judicial Council, (NJC) and the State Judicial Service Commission of the resolution of the House.

Among allegations against the Chief Judge are misconduct, abuse of  power, corruption, lack of respect for due process and rule of law.

The suspension of the Chief Judge is however said to be on defiance of a court order, which restrained the governor from carrying out the action.