AKURE- A group, the Ondo State Conscience Movement (OCM) says the physical presence of Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu in the state is important to governance.
The group in a statement by its chairman, Mr Shalom Olaseni, on Friday in Akure, berated claims by some individuals that the governor can rule from anywhere.
Akeredolu has been at his private residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, since his return to the country from a medical vacation in Germany on Sept. 7.
An Akure based human rights lawyer, Morakinyo Ogele, had on Wednesday said Akeredolu is enabled by the Constitution to govern Ondo State from any part of Nigeria, saying it is provided for in the 1999 Constitution.
Ogele, while addressing journalists, said that the Constitution does not state that a governor must reside in the state he was elected to govern.
Reacting to Ogele’s statement, Olaseni said that the seat of the governor has a physical location designated for the coordination and administration of its functions and powers.
“The assertion that the Constitution permits Mr governor to govern the state from ‘anywhere’ is viewed by our movement as a facetious claim, one that challenges the principles of good governance and constitutional integrity.
“This statement was made in response to criticisms raised by our movement and other concerned citizens regarding Governor Akeredolu’s apparent abdication of his duties and his physical absence from the office.
“We must emphasise that this situation has had a significant impact on the effective functioning of our state,” he said.
Olaseni said the governor, judging by his background as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, should serve as a reminder that he has a duty to uphold the Constitution and not to justify actions that violate the principles of law and due process.
“In light of these concerns, we strongly urge Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to physically and fully resume his duties in office.
“We believe that this is his responsibility to both himself and the people of Ondo State.
“Furthermore, should his health require further assessment or recuperation, we implore him to honourably transfer state power to the deputy governor to ensure the continuous and efficient administration of the state.
“It is our firm advice to the governor to refrain from seeking statutory provisions that do not exist to justify his actions,” he added.
Olaseni said the group is committed to the principles of accountability, transparency and good governance in advocating for the welfare and interest of the people of the state. (NAN)
