Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State praised the Ogun State House of Assembly on Tuesday for the smooth and peaceful process that resulted in the appointment of Oludaisi Elemide as the new Speaker. This followed the impeachment of Olakunle Oluomo by 18 lawmakers last week Tuesday.
Represented by Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Governor Abiodun expressed his appreciation during a courtesy visit by 19 members of the House, who accompanied the new Speaker to the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta.
Through the Deputy Governor, Abiodun mentioned that the executive branch did not interfere in the selection process, allowing the lawmakers to make their decision independently. He assured them of the executive’s support in their chosen leadership.
Abiodun acknowledged that changing the leader of a legislature is not an unprecedented move in Nigeria. He emphasized the commitment of the executive branch to abide by the principles of separation of powers and the rule of law in their relationship with the House of Assembly.
In response, the newly elected Speaker, Elemide, assured that the House would work harmoniously with the executive and avoid unnecessary conflicts that could hinder the progress of the state. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, lobbying when necessary, and representing the interests of the people of the state.
Elemide emphasized that he would fulfill the trust placed in him by his colleagues and acknowledged that they were equals, each representing their respective constituencies. He pledged to speak on their behalf, faithfully reflecting their views.
Earlier, the Assembly ratified Oluomo’s impeachment with the support of all 22 members present at the plenary session. The Deputy Speaker, Bolanle Ajayi, presided over the session, during which Musefiu Lamidi, the representative of Ado-Odo/Ota II, presented the committee’s report on the investigation into the allegations against Oluomo.
Lamidi clarified that the committee was not on a witch-hunt but aimed to provide a fair hearing to Oluomo regarding the allegations. However, Oluomo objected to some committee members’ involvement, claiming that they were among the 18 lawmakers who signed the impeachment notice. Consequently, he walked out of the committee, refusing to answer further questions.
The committee observed that Oluomo’s behavior demonstrated a lack of respect for the committee and the House of Assembly, thereby admitting to the allegations outlined in the impeachment notice, which included financial impropriety, high-handedness, and a lack of focus.
Based on the committee’s findings, Lamidi moved a motion for the adoption of the report, which was seconded by Oluseun Adesanya. With the majority of 22 members voting in favor, Oluomo was officially impeached and removed from the position of Speaker of the Ogun House of Assembly, as declared by the Deputy Speaker