A Response to Misdirected Demands on Ondo State’s Local Government Laws
….. by Olufemi Lawson
The recent outcry by an Akure bases Lawyer, Adebayo Solagbade, who in doubt, is acting as a proxy for certain controversial political interests in Ondo State, has raised more questions about his understanding of legal procedures and less about the substance of the issues he’s attempting to address. His persistent and misguided demands regarding the Local Government System, Establishment and Administration of Local Government Councils of Ondo State, Cap 87, Volume 2, Laws of Ondo State, 2006, and the subsequent amendments, are not only misplaced but are also proving to be an unnecessary distraction from the real issues at hand.
A lot has been said about the amended law that governs the composition and appointment of the Local Government Election Petition Tribunal. Prior to the amendment, the law stipulated that the Governor had the authority to appoint the Tribunal Panel, based on the recommendation of the Chief Judge. This arrangement, while seemingly functional, created significant concerns regarding the independence of the judiciary and the Tribunal, given the potential for executive influence in the appointment process. In response to these concerns, the law was amended to grant the Chief Judge exclusive authority over the appointment of the Tribunal Panel. This change has been widely celebrated, as it strengthens the independence of the judiciary and restores public confidence in the process.
However, despite the overwhelming support for this amendment from the people of Ondo State, including legal experts and ordinary citizens alike, Adebayo Solagbade, and his sponsor continues to question the existence of the amendment. His recent actions, including attempting to blackmail the State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, into responding to demands that fall outside the purview of his office, show a lack of understanding about the bureaucracy of public records and government procedures. Solagbade Amodeni and his sponsors, instead of following the proper channels, resorted to writing letters to the Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Chief Judge, and the Attorney General, querying and demanding access to the amended law in a manner that can only be described as an exercise in redundancy.
It is important to point out that the amended law is entirely self-explanatory. There is no confusion or ambiguity regarding its existence. If any individual, whether a lawyer or not, wishes to access the law, there are established procedures for doing so, and not this “Bolekaja” approach being employed by Adebayo Solagbade; One must either purchase the law directly from the relevant vendors or approach the Government Printers to apply for a certified true copy with undertakings to bear the cost of certification. Such processes ensure that due procedure is followed and costs are covered as necessary. However, instead of following these clear procedures, Solagbade and his allies have opted for an unprofessional approach, demanding the documents in an inappropriate and disruptive manner.
The Office of the Attorney General is not a postal service company, nor is it a place where individuals can expect to receive requested documents without adhering to the proper processes. It is an office that deals with important legal matters and processes daily, and it is crucial that people, including lawyers, respect the established procedures. The determination of whether or not the law exists is not solely dependent on Solagbade’s requests, as the legislative process is open and well-known. It is the Speaker and the Clerk who are responsible for ensuring that bills are presented to the Governor for assent.
It is abundantly clear that Solagbade’s actions are less about legal propriety and more about political mischief. His attempts to discredit the legal process in Ondo State, including targeting the Chief Judge of the State and the Attorney General of the State, are a clear attempt to muddy the waters and cover up his own indiscretions. This is not about seeking the truth; it is about undermining the democratic process, especially the just-concluded Local Government election.
Let it be known, Ondo State, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is committed to due process, constitutionalism, and the rule of law. The amendments to the law have been made in good faith, with the best interests of the people in mind. The law speaks for itself, and once Solagbade Amodeni and his sponsors obtain a certified true copy, they will realize the futility of their efforts. Until then, they would do well to respect the legal procedures that govern this State, as Ondo remains firm in its commitment to ensuring justice for all.
Finally, the persistent attempts to undermine the process through baseless demands and misguided rhetoric must be rejected and may be sanctioned. The people of Ondo State, the judiciary, and the legal system deserve better than to be caught in this web of distractions. Let the law be allowed to do its work, and let due process continue to guide the administration of justice in Ondo State.
Olufemi Lawson is the Senior Special Assistant on Public Enlightenment to the Executive Governor of Ondo State.
