A civil society organisation, African Civil Society Forum (AFRICSOF), has warned of the consequences of impeaching the deputy governor of Ondo State, saying the plot would be greeted with steadfast resistance from the people of the state.
It asked the Ondo State House of Assembly to tread with caution and adhere to the rule of law instead of embarking political ventures that would detribalize Nigerian democracy.
Speaking at a press conference yesterday in Abuja, chairman of the governing board of AFRICSOF, Dr. Tunji John Asaolu, expressed worry over moves by the state legislature to impeach the deputy governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Asaolu described as disheartening brewing crisis within the corridors of power in Ondo State involving Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, his deputy and the lawmakers, warning that it could divert attention from the vital issues of good governance and the well-being of the state’s citizens.
His words: “We strongly oppose the use of legislative chambers as platforms for political witch-hunts or targeted vendettas or wars. We urge all stakeholders involved to ensure that justice is pursued, and constitutional principles are adhered to, rather than allowing personal conflicts and ambitions to overshadow the pursuit of the common good.
“The neglect of governance resulting from this political crisis has had a devastating impact on the lives and livelihoods of the people of Ondo State. We condemn this negligence as needless and avoidable, and we call for an immediate refocus on matters that directly affect the state’s fortunes and the welfare of its people.
“Let it be clear that AFRICSOF and the people of Ondo State will not give their approval to actions driven by sinister motives aimed at settling personal political scores and undermining the state and its people. We caution against retooling the Ondo State House of Assembly as a mere enforcement arm of executive whims. Any such actions will face steadfast resistance from the people”.
AFRICSOF further underscored the need for increased accountability in government and a return to prioritizing issues with a direct impact on the state’s prosperity and the welfare of its people.
Asaolu added: “We call upon all stakeholders, both within and outside of Ondo State, to join us in safeguarding the principles that underpin our democracy, ensuring that Ondo State thrives as a beacon of good governance.
“We view the actions of the State Assembly as a disservice to the person and office of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu whom in his sound mind, will not tolerate the actions of the Speaker of the State Assembly and his co-travellers. The impeachment threat is a mockery of the Governor on his sick bed. How will the Governor feel at the moment, managing his health and hearing of his deputy’s impeachment Threat, it’s a ploy to kill the Governor faster than the ailments he is fighting.
“We want to caution politicians to desist from activities that may detribalize Nigerian democracy. We encourage them to always imbibe the tenet of democracy and observe the rule of law for the overall interest of the Country.
“We call on the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of State Security Service and indeed the Nigerian Judiciary to protect our democracy and ensured its sustainability.
“In conclusion, AFRICSOF remains resolute in our commitment to uphold justice, transparency, inclusive decision-making process that involves citizens’ participation and the rule of law in Ondo State. We invite all stakeholders to join hands in protecting democracy and promoting good governance, as we strive to create a prosperous future for the people of Ondo State.”
