The Ondo State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Speaker Olamide Oladiji, has chosen to withdraw its appeal against Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who faced potential impeachment due to alleged gross misconduct. The legislative body, represented by a legal team led by Dr. Remi Peter O., informed the appellate court of their decision to discontinue the case, citing a “political solution” in the interest of peace.
The appellants’ counsel stated, “My lords, the parties in this matter have found a political solution to their problems. Therefore, on behalf of the appellants, we are here to withdraw this appeal. The instruction to this effect was given to us yesterday, and we have filed this morning the notice of withdrawal. In the interest of peace, we seek to withdraw this appeal.”
The withdrawal application faced no opposition from A.A. Adewusi, the lawyer representing the deputy governor, who confirmed receiving all necessary processes. Other respondents, including the Department of State Services (DSS), represented by Mr. I. Awo, expressed no objections to the peace initiative and the withdrawal of the appeal.
Consequently, a three-member panel led by Justice Haruna Tsammani dismissed the appeal, stating, “This appeal, having been withdrawn, is hereby dismissed.” Previously, the Ondo lawmakers had approached the appellate court to challenge an interim injunction from the Federal High Court, Abuja, preventing them from impeaching the deputy governor for alleged misconduct. The appeal dismissal marks a resolution in the ongoing legal dispute between the legislative body and the deputy governor.