NBA Firmly Rejects Osun Acting CJ Appointment, Challenges Governor Adeleke

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed strong condemnation for the removal of Osun State Chief Judge, Justice Adepele Ojo, by Governor Ademola Adeleke…CONTINUE READING

In a statement released by the National Publicity Secretary, Mr Akorede Lawal, on Saturday, the NBA declared its refusal to recognize Justice Olayinka Afolabi, appointed as the Acting Chief Judge by the governor.

Lawal emphasized that the NBA’s stance is based on the constitutional doctrine of separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary.

He asserted that the tenure of a judicial officer should not be subject to the whims of politicians and criticized the governor’s actions for violating the principle of separation of powers and disregarding a court order.

The statement highlighted the established legal precedent, referencing the Nganjiwa v FRN case and the Elelu-Habeeb & Anor v AG Federation & Ors case, emphasizing that any misconduct related to the office of a judicial officer must be reported to and determined by the National Judicial Council (NJC).

The NBA expressed concern that the Osun Government chose to ignore the lawful order of interim injunction granted by the National Industrial Court in Ibadan.

Lawal concluded by affirming that the NBA would not recognize Justice Afolabi as the acting Chief Judge of Osun, emphasizing the importance of obeying and complying with court decisions until they are set aside by a superior court of competent jurisdiction.