NBA Condemns ‘Unlawful’ Removal Of Osun Chief Judge By Governor, Calls Purported Sack An ‘Abuse Of Law *Accuses Osun Govt of Disregarding Court Order in CJ’s Removal

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the purported removal of the Chief Judge of Osun State, Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo, by Governor Ademola Adeleke.

Governor Adeleke claimed to be acting on a resolution by the Osun State House of Assembly asking Justice Ojo to step aside pending investigation of allegations against her.

In a strong statement, the NBA said the governor’s action is an abuse of the rule of law and an assault on the judiciary aimed at intimidation. It stated that the constitution has clear procedures for removing a chief judge which were not followed.

The NBA declared it does not recognise Justice Olayinka Afolabi who was appointed acting Chief Judge by the state government. It said Justice Afolabi’s appointment violates the constitution since due process was not followed in removing Justice Ojo.

The lawyers’ body further noted that the National Industrial Court has already granted an interim injunction restraining the governor from interfering with the chief judge’s office. It accused the state government of disregarding a lawful court order.

The NBA condemned the affront on judicial independence and warned it will take all necessary steps to ensure the government’s impunity does not stand. It vowed to legally battle the chief judge’s purported removal which it views as a dangerous precedent.