The Ondo State Government is seeking to obtain a certified true copy of the Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy before determining its next course of action, according to State Attorney General Olukayode Ajulo.
In a statement released Wednesday, Mr. Ajulo addressed the recent controversy surrounding the state’s decision to establish caretaker committees for its 18 local councils and 33 newly created Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), despite the Supreme Court’s ruling granting financial autonomy to local government areas.
Mr. Ajulo stated, “We are actively pursuing the Certified True Copy of the judgment and the enrolled Order from the Supreme Court, it is necessary that we obtain a complete and accurate record of the judgment to thoroughly study its contents and implications.”
The Attorney General emphasized the complexity of the case, noting that the Supreme Court’s decision was not unanimous, with a split judgment of five against two.
He added, “The majority of the justices even disagreed on the reliefs sought by the Federal Government. This complexity underscores the need for a careful and comprehensive analysis of the judgment.”
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Mr. Ajulo assured the public that the state government remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served.
He said, “Our efforts are focused on understanding the intricacies of the judgment and determining the appropriate course of action for its implementation while also ensuring that the administrative apparatus of our local governments is appropriately manned with suitable personnel throughout the transitional phase.”
The Attorney General called for patience from the public as the government works through the process, stating, “Rest assured that the Government of Ondo State, under the able leadership of Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is dedicated to upholding the principles of justice and will carefully examine the judgment and promptly set the necessary mechanisms in motion, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to fully implementing the rule of law in all our endeavours.”
This statement comes in the wake of criticism from the state’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which had rebuked the government for allegedly undermining the Supreme Court judgment by proceeding with the formation of caretaker committees for local governments.
The PDP had also called for Mr. Ajulo’s resignation, accusing him of misadvising the state government on the matter.
