Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has accused the former local government chairmen ousted in 2019 of employing various tactics to divert his administration from its course. The governor, in his stance, contends that these former officials have resorted to all means to distract and disrupt the government’s operations.
Originally elected during the tenure of Governor Abiola Ajimobi in 2018, the ousted council bosses found themselves dismissed by Makinde in 2019. Their grievances stem from the alleged non-payment of their entitlements, leading them to secure a court judgment that froze the state’s accounts across ten commercial banks, as reported by Oduduwa News.
Governor Makinde, in response to the legal actions taken by the former council bosses, adamantly declares that his government will not succumb to pressure to release funds until all legal avenues have been exhausted. He maintains that the council bosses will only receive payment upon a directive from the Supreme Court.
Speaking on the matter, Governor Makinde defended his decision by highlighting the importance of adhering to constitutional principles. He drew parallels with past administrations, noting instances where dissolved council chairmen continued to receive entitlements. Despite facing distractions, Makinde asserted his commitment to a government founded on constitutional legality.
“I could have worked with anybody, but because they did something that was not in line with the Constitution, we decided that they had to go,” Governor Makinde stated emphatically. He underscored that his decision was not influenced by historical precedents but rather a commitment to upholding constitutional principles.
The governor revealed the complexity of the legal battle, recounting how the former chairmen pursued multiple legal avenues until they reached the FCT High Court. Despite the distraction, Makinde remains steadfast, asserting that not a single dime will be paid until the Supreme Court issues a directive.
“This is a government that is based on the Constitution,” Governor Makinde emphasized, sending a clear message that adherence to constitutional principles takes precedence over external pressures. As the legal skirmish unfolds, Oyo State finds itself at the center of a political storm, with Governor Makinde standing firm against what he deems an assault on constitutional integrity.