The Ondo State High Court in Akure, the state capital, has nullified the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) created by late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
Delivering judgment on Thursday, June 20, 2024, Justice A.O Adebusuoye, described the LCDAs as inchoate and not lawfully created.
The judge said it was illegal for a governor to sign a law outside the state.
The court added that the Local Government Creation Law 2023 signed by late Akeredolu in Ibadan, outside the state, was unconstitutional, illegal, null, and void.
But the state government in a statement Thursday evening said it is awaiting the certified true copy of the judgment for a proper study and analysis to determine the next step.
Akeredolu had, on September 9, 2023, assented to the bill creating 33 LCDAs in Ondo State.
The bill for the creation of the LCDAs was presented to the late governor by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Oladiji Olamide, during a ceremony at the deceased’s residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
In a statement issued on the judgment Thursday evening by the Office of the state Atyorney-General, a legal opinion would soon be issued on the matter to the state governor for prompt action.
The statement reads:
RE: ONDO STATE HIGH COURT JUDGMENT ON 33 LCDA CREATION
The Honourable Attorney General of Ondo State, *Dr Olukayode Ajulo, OON*, SAN has taken cognizance of the Ondo State High Court’s recent judgment nullifying the creation of the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
In response, the Honourable Attorney General has promptly requested the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment. Upon receipt, a meticulous study and analysis will be undertaken, culminating in a comprehensive legal opinion to the Government of Ondo State.
Subsequently, all necessary measures, in accordance with our laws, will be taken to safeguard the interests of our citizens, foster peaceful coexistence, and uphold the rule of law.
The Honourable Attorney General remains steadfast in his commitment to prioritizing the well-being and welfare of our citizens, working tirelessly to ensure that justice and the law are served.
Thank you.
SIGNED
Dele Sadiq Jobi
Media Assistant to the
Honourable Attorney General of Ondo State
