A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has stopped further action on impeachment of Ondo State Deputy Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Justice Emeka Nwite issued the temporary order on Tuesday while ruling in a motion on notice filed by Ayedatiwa, praying the court to stop the move to ease him out of office by his principal.
In the ruling on the motion argued by Mr Aiyedatiwa’s counsel, also restrained Governor Rotimi Akeredolu from nominating a new deputy governor and forwarding the same to the lawmakers for approval pending the hearing and determination of the substantive matter.
Ayedatiwa, in his originating summons, prayed the Court to determine whether, in view of the provisions of sections 186 and 193 of the 1999 Constitution, Governor Akeredolu has the power to instigate the Assembly members, to harass, intimidate, molest and prevent him from accessing his office to carry out his constitutionally guaranteed duties.
According to the court documents seen by Savannah News, “the inspector-general of police, state security service, speaker of Ondo State house of assembly, and chief judge of Ondo state,” were listed as first to sixth defendants, respectively.
Ruling on Aiyedatiwa’s parte application on September 25, Nwite, the presiding judge, directed the parties in the suit to maintain “status quo ante bellum”.
Justice Nwite was of the view that the interest of justice would be met by granting the application.
“Therefore, the application of the applicant succeeds,” he said.
In the application dated and filed by Mr Adelanke Akinrata on Sept. 25, Aiyedatiwa sought four reliefs.
Meanwhile, the suit has been adjourned till October 9, 2023.
