The embattled chairman of Alimosho Local Government Council, Jelili Sulaimon, has pleaded with the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu not to implement his suspension which was approved by the Lagos State House of Assembly.
In a statement issued by his counsel, Abdul Mahmud , the chairman said his suspension is subjudice and should not be carried out by the state government.
Urging the state government to adhere to due process and respect for the judiciary, in his client’s case, the lawyer said the matter is before a Federal High Court in Abuja.
He said, “We write to draw the attention of the general public to the letter, written by Mrs Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Lagos State, dated 8th October, 2024.
“The letter, addressed to Mr. Akinpelu Johnson, Vice Chairman, Alimosho Local Government Area, directed him to assume office as Acting Chairman pursuant to the unconstitutional resolution of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Recall that Lagos state House of Assembly on Monday, October 7, 2024, suspended the embattled LG Council Chairman, indefinitely.
The decision, which was reportedly reached during a plenary session, follows the lawmakers’ unanimous vote to remove Mr Sulaimon over allegations of misconduct and defiance of the legislative House.
The Vice Chairman of the Council, Akinpelu Johnson, was directed to assume control of the council’s affairs.
Continuing, the lawyer said his team is aware that the Permanent Secretary also issued a subsequent letter on the same day instructing Mr. Johnson to await further directive from the Executive Governor of Lagos State.
According to the lawyer, the team taught it important to remind the Permanent Secretary that the purported suspension of Mr Sulaimon, and all actions related thereto are subjudice.
“The matter is currently pending before the Federal High Court in; Jelili Sulaimon & Anor v Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly & five Others.
“Therefore, any further action regarding the implementation of the unconstitutional resolution would be in violation of the rule of law and an infringement on the ongoing judicial process,” he said.
In addition, the permanent secretary was further advised to stay clear of any action concerning the suspension.