A human rights lawyer, Morakinyo Ogele, has stated that according to the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has the authority to govern the state of Ondo from any part of the country.
Addressing the ongoing concerns and speculations about the whereabouts of the Governor, Ogele emphasized that there is no requirement in the constitution for a governor to reside in the state they were elected to govern. He further stated that Governor Akeredolu has been effectively fulfilling his responsibilities as the state’s leader.
Recently, there has been uproar from some quarters regarding the governor’s absence from the state, following his return from a medical vacation in Germany five weeks ago.
The lawyer highlighted that illness can affect anyone and commended Governor Akeredolu for implementing numerous life-changing programs across the state.
“There are certain gaps in our constitution. It does not explicitly specify that a governor must operate within their state to fulfill their constitutional duties. This is why we need to amend our constitution,” Ogele remarked.
“The constitution has not prohibited a governor from operating outside their state. It does not limit the governor to only function in Ondo State,” he added.
Ogele also suggested that the current scenario in the state, with politicians scrutinizing the governor’s movements, is due to preparations for the upcoming elections.
Speaking on the governor’s accomplishments, Ogele highlighted the infrastructural developments he has initiated, particularly roads and flyover construction.
“Governor Akeredolu has demonstrated a commitment to the development of the state. The roads constructed under his administration are commendable. Furthermore, the ongoing construction of the first flyover in the state capital is unprecedented,” Ogele stated.
It is important to note that the constitution allows governors the flexibility to govern their respective states, regardless of their physical location within the country. Governor Akeredolu’s initiatives and achievements should be acknowledged and celebrated, rather than overshadowed by unnecessary debates about his presence in the state.
