The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure has delivered a landmark judgment reinstating the elected All Progressives Congress (APC) Local Government officials in Osun State. The officials had previously been sacked by Governor Ademola Adeleke shortly after his assumption of office.
In a unanimous decision, the court declared the dismissal of the officials as unconstitutional and ordered their immediate resumption of office. The judgment affirmed that the elected officials were lawfully inaugurated following their victory in the local government elections conducted under the administration of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola.
Delivering the lead judgment, Justice emphasized the importance of upholding the democratic rights of duly elected representatives at all levels of government. The court held that Governor Adeleke’s action lacked legal justification and contravened provisions of the Constitution and the Electoral Act.
Speaking shortly after the ruling, one of the reinstated officials expressed gratitude to the judiciary for upholding justice. “We are happy that the judiciary has restored the people’s mandate. This victory is not just for APC but for democracy in Osun State,” he said.
The APC in Osun State also hailed the judgment as a victory for democracy and rule of law. The party’s spokesperson called on Governor Adeleke to respect the court’s decision and provide a conducive environment for the reinstated officials to discharge their responsibilities.
Meanwhile, legal experts have described the ruling as a significant precedent that underscores the independence of the judiciary and the sanctity of electoral processes.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from the Osun State Government regarding the court’s decision.
Observers are keenly watching how the political landscape in the state will be shaped by this development.
