In a stunning twist to the unfolding saga, the legislative arm of Alimosho Local Government has unanimously voted to express their unwavering confidence in Mr. Jelili Sulaimon, the suspended Chairman of the local government. The decision came amidst the suspension handed down by the Lagos State House of Assembly led by Obasa.
During the local council’s plenary session, councillors categorically rejected the suspension enforced by the state assembly, showing their unanimous support for the chairman. They went further to praise his character and conduct, referring to him as an “omoluabi,” a high honor in Yoruba culture, describing a person of outstanding moral standing and integrity.
Following the Lagos Assembly’s suspension of Alimosho Local Government Chairman, Mr. Jelili Sulaimon, on October 7, 2024, due to allegations of misconduct, financial mismanagement, and defiance of legislative orders, the local legislative arm took a defiant stance.
They argued that Sulaimon had performed his duties responsibly and in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.
Rather than upholding the suspension, the councillors, led by Hon. Obadina Ahmed, made a bold move to suspend the council’s vice chairman, Mr. Akinpelu Johnson.
Johnson was accused of insubordination, failing to account for his activities as chairman of the tender board, and repeatedly ignoring three invitations to appear before the legislative house.
AKNN reports that this series of events has added a new layer of complexity to the situation in Alimosho Local Government.
The motion for Johnson’s suspension was raised by Majority Leader Bolaji Yusuf and was unanimously approved by the entire legislative body. Hon. Obadina Ahmed, the leader of the house, officially pronounced the vice chairman’s suspension.
The legislative members involved in the decision include:
- Mr. Obadina Ahmed – Leader
- Mr. Mojisola Fabusuyi Ayeni – Deputy Leader
- Mr. Omobolaji Yusuf – Majority Leader
- Mr. Saheed Adegoke – Chief Whip
- Mr. Rasheed Semiu – Member
- Mr. Elizabeth Fashina – Member
- Mr. Fadeyi Samuel – Member
Speaking after the session, Mr. Obadina Ahmed emphasized the importance of local government autonomy as outlined in the 1999 Constitution. He said, “Our decision reaffirms the autonomy of the local government as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution. The suspension of a local government official is within the jurisdiction of the local legislative arm, not the state assembly.”
Citing the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on local government autonomy, the legislative arm of Alimosho Local Government has asserted its authority in handling the suspension of its officials.
The Supreme Court’s decision clarifies the powers of local legislative bodies in such matters, strengthening their position in this case. In light of these developments, the office of the council chairman has released a statement urging the public to maintain peace and go about their daily activities as usual.
The statement assures residents that Mr. Jelili Sulaimon remains in charge of the local government’s affairs, emphasizing the continuity of leadership despite the ongoing dispute with the Lagos State House of Assembly.
