Ondo Governor Reflects On His Political Survival: The Rule Of Law And The Judiciary As His Lifeline

Ondo Governor Hails Judiciary as Key to His Survival Amid Impeachment Plot

Naija News shares a powerful story about Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, who recently expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the judiciary for playing a critical role in his survival during a tumultuous 2023 impeachment plot. In a candid moment, he described the judiciary as the “last hope of the common man.”

Recalling the Turbulent Times

Aiyedatiwa opened up about the challenges he faced during the political crisis that almost forced him out of office. Speaking with conviction, he credited both divine intervention and the rule of law for his survival. This acknowledgment came during a significant event in Abuja, where the Body of Benchers held their maiden Annual Lecture and presented a report on the direction of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee.

Delving Into the Crisis

The crisis began when Aiyedatiwa was serving as the acting governor of Ondo State during the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s medical leave. In 2023, the 10th Ondo State House of Assembly accused him of gross misconduct and initiated impeachment proceedings. The Assembly demanded the establishment of a seven-member panel to investigate the allegations, as mandated by the Nigerian Constitution.

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However, the Chief Judge of the state intervened by halting the proceedings. The reason? An ex parte order issued by an Abuja court on September 26, 2023, which prohibited any action until the court order was vacated. On October 16, 2023, Olatunji Oshati, the spokesperson for the Assembly, confirmed that the impeachment proceedings would be suspended until the court order was lifted.

A New Chapter Begins

Following Governor Akeredolu’s passing in December 2023, Aiyedatiwa assumed full office as governor. Reflecting on the events that shaped his political journey, he praised the rule of law for its pivotal role in protecting his position. He expressed, “After God, the rule of law was instrumental in my survival. It has further strengthened my belief in its importance.”

He continued, “I remember my political journey about a year ago. I’m a proud beneficiary of the rule of law without being modest. In the face of the political plot to impeach me as deputy governor back in 2023, after God, the rule of law was instrumental in my rescue.”

Aiyedatiwa further emphasized, “Perhaps I wouldn’t be standing before you today without the rule of law coupled with an impartial administration of justice. This has strengthened my resolve and confidence in the judiciary as the true last hope of the common man.”

A Call for Modernization in the Judiciary

In his speech, Governor Aiyedatiwa urged the Nigerian judiciary to embrace modern advancements, especially technology and artificial intelligence, to enhance justice delivery. He passionately stated, “This is a call to action in legal practice in an ever-evolving society in the ever-changing world.”

He elaborated, “We gather not just to celebrate the legacy of the Body of Benchers but because we are at a pivotal moment in history. As we embrace rapid technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence, global commerce, and digital governance, the role of custodians of justice must evolve to meet the demands of the modern era.”

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Preserving the Integrity of the Legal Profession

Aiyedatiwa highlighted the need for continuous introspection and legal innovation, stating, “The Body of Benchers are the cornerstone of legal practice, and as the apex institution overseeing legal education and professional conduct, that is an immense responsibility. It stands not only safeguarding the integrity of the legal profession but also showing that the legal framework remains dynamic, relevant, and resilient in the face of global shifts.”

Concluding his remarks, the governor stressed the importance of adapting Nigeria’s legal framework to contemporary realities. He said, “Our educational and ethical foundation must be preserved, strengthened, refined, and adapted to contemporary reality.”