During the Tuesday session of the Ogun State House of Assembly, 18 out of 26 members impeached the Speaker, Olakunle Oluomo.
The impeachment, presided over by Deputy Speaker Mrs. Bolanle Ajayi (APC-Yewa South), was based on allegations of gross misconduct, highhandedness, lack of focus and transparency, financial misappropriation, and pursuit of selfish interests. Oluomo, representing Ifo State Constituency, was reportedly attending the swearing-in of customary court judges at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto Abeokuta, when the impeachment occurred.
The assembly elected Oludaisi Elemide (APC-Odeda) as the new speaker. Reports also mentioned shootings by security officers loyal to Oluomo, who attempted to prevent the impeachment.
Adegoke Awoso (APC-Yewa North 1) moved the impeachment motion, seconded by Ademola Adeniran (APC-Sagamu Constituency II). Awoso, also known as Adeyanju, reportedly entered the assembly chamber with the mace along with other lawmakers.
Oluomo, who is standing trial for financial misappropriation of N2bn, had charges filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in September 2022. He has maintained his innocence, asserting that he would be vindicated of the fraud charges.
After being elected as the new speaker, Elemide assured the public of the new leadership’s support for the governor. He emphasized that the governor had no involvement in the impeachment.
Damilola Soneye (APC-Obafemi Owode) spoke to newsmen, noting that the speaker was impeached due to gross misconduct, high-handedness, lack of focus and transparency, arrogance, poor leadership style, financial misappropriation, and inciting members against each other.
The Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, visited the assembly complex to ensure law and order. Awoso alleged that police shot at his car’s tire while searching for guns, which were not found.
The Commissioner for Police stated that the visit aimed to maintain law and order, dispelling claims of arms found in a car at the assembly complex. The house adjourned sitting for a week, and the Clerk and Deputy Clerk, Mr. Deji Adeyemo and Mrs. Funmilayo Adeyemi, were present at the plenary.
