AMILOADED MEDIA HUB NEWS UPDATE
…..reject appointment of politician as OSIEC chairman
The coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) in Osun state, has condemned Gov Ademola Adeleke alleged plan to remove the Chief Judge, Oyebola Adepele-Ojo, AMILOADED reports.
The group made this known during a press conference held on Wednesday in Osogbo, the capital of Osun state. The group also rejected the appointment of politician as Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) Chairman.
The statement reads; “The coalition of civil society groups committed to upholding the principles of justice, transparency, and the rule of law, strongly condemns the recent attempt by the Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, to illegally remove the Chief Judge of Osun State, Honorable Justice Adebola Adepele Ojo. This move is particularly troubling as it appears to be a reprisal against the Chief Judge for her principled stand against attempts to manipulate the judiciary in the state.
The independence of the judiciary is a cornerstone of any democratic society, and any attempt to undermine or interfere with the judiciary compromises the very foundation of the rule of law. The Chief Judge, in her capacity, has a constitutional duty to uphold justice and ensure the fair and impartial administration of the law. Her commitment to these principles should be celebrated, not met with attempts at removal for political reasons.
“As Civil Society Organisations, we are deeply concerned about the implications of this action on the integrity of the judiciary in Osun State. The judiciary plays a crucial role in maintaining the checks and balances essential to a well-functioning democracy. Any interference in its operations erodes public trust and undermines the constitutional framework that guarantees the separation of powers.
“We hereby call on Governor Ademola Adeleke to respect the independence of the judiciary and immediately cease any attempts to remove the Chief Judge based on her principled stance. The judiciary must be allowed to operate without fear of reprisal or political interference, ensuring that justice is served impartially and without bias.
“Furthermore, we urge relevant stakeholders, including the National Judicial Council, legal associations, and the general public, to closely monitor the situation in Osun State and speak out against any actions that threaten the independence of the judiciary.
“As stakeholder in the Osun project, we remain committed to defending the rule of law, protecting the independence of the judiciary, and promoting accountability in governance.
“APPOINTMENT OF OSIEC CHAIRMAN
“Meanwhile, we also wish to expresses our deep concern and condemnation regarding the recent appointment of a political Aide of the Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, that is, Barrister Hashim Abioye, as the Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC).
“The appointment of a partisan figure, such as Hashim Abioye, to head an independent electoral commission contradicts the fundamental principle of ensuring a non-partisan, impartial, and transparent electoral process. It is essential for the integrity of the electoral system that individuals entrusted with such responsibilities are perceived as neutral and unbiased.
“The appointment raises serious questions about the independence of OSIEC and the potential impact on the credibility of future electoral processes in Osun State. The role of the electoral commission is pivotal in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, and the appointment of a politically affiliated individual compromises the perceived neutrality of the commission.
“In a democratic society, the independence of electoral bodies is paramount to guaranteeing the rights of citizens to participate in the electoral process without fear of manipulation or bias. A non-partisan approach to the leadership of electoral commissions is vital for fostering public trust and confidence in the electoral system.
“We hereby call on the Osun State government to reconsider this appointment and to prioritize the appointment of an individual with a proven track record of impartiality, integrity, and commitment to the principles of democracy. It is imperative that the leadership of OSIEC inspires confidence among all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the general public.
“The credibility of elections is essential for the stability and progress of any democratic society, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the electoral commission operates independently and transparently.”
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