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Former federal lawmaker, Hon. Rotimi Makinde, has expressed his strong disapproval of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s recent decision to dissolve statutory commissions in Osun State, calling on him to reconsider and reverse this decision.
Makinde, who represented Ife Federal Constituency of Osun State in the 7th National Assembly, in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen, expressed his intention to take legal action if the governor fails to reinstate the dismissed officials, including himself, as a member of the Judicial Service Commission.
Recall that Adeleke had on Monday, October 30, 2023, dissolved all statutory boards, including the Civil Service Commission, Judicial Service Commission, State Independent Electoral Commission, and House of Assembly Service Commission.
Makinde stressed the importance of adhering to the rule of law and highlighted the unusual nature of the governor’s actions. He pointed out that at the federal level, the president has not exercised executive fiat to remove individuals from statutory offices.
The former House of Representatives member further called on the advisors of the governor to provide accurate guidance on the functioning, membership, and tenure of statutory commissions.
He underscored the importance of adhering to honourable and lawful practices in governance, noting that reversing decisions, making policy corrections or offering apologies is not a sign of weakness, but rather a demonstration of matured leadership and respect for established rules and norms.
“It is crucial for fostering unity, inclusiveness, peace, and progress,” he added.
Makinde reiterated the significance of the rule of law in the society and cautioned the governor against allowing sycophants to lead him astray. He stressed that the rule of law must be upheld, adding that any breaches should be taken to court, as prescribed by the constitution.
The former lawmker appealed to Adeleke to reconsider his stance on the matter and uphold the principle of honour and decency.