Court Invalidates Establishment Of 33 Local Councils By Former Governor Akeredolu

Court Invalidates Establishment Of 33 Local Councils By Former Governor Akeredolu....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Akoko leaders in Ondo State have welcomed a court decision declaring the creation of 33 Local Government Development Areas (LCDAs) by the state government illegal and without conditions. The Akure High Court’s ruling, delivered by Justice Adegboyega Adebusoye, invalidated the LCDAs established under former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, stating they were not lawfully constituted and did not comply with constitutional provisions.

The lawsuit, filed by leaders representing Akoko Southeast, Southwest, Northwest, and Northeast local governments, contested the marginalization they perceived in the creation of the LCDAs. They argued that the process did not adhere to constitutional sections 7 and 8 and lacked fair distribution among existing local governments.

In response to the court’s decision, the Akoko Development Initiative (ADI) expressed satisfaction, emphasizing that the ruling aligns with legal principles and reflects the aspirations of Akoko people. They highlighted discrepancies noted during the legislative process, including insufficient adjustments despite protests and submissions during public hearings.

Former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Bakitta Bello, Matthew Ofosile, and Lawal Rogbitan, among others, affirmed that the court’s judgment upholds justice and ensures a balanced approach to governance. They underscored the importance of equitable treatment in public policy, urging future adherence to constitutional norms for the collective benefit of all stakeholders in Ondo State.