Court sets February 8 for hearing on ex-Oyo Deputy Governor’s impeachment appeal

The Court of Appeal, Ibadan Division, has scheduled February 8 for the hearing of an appeal lodged by former Oyo State Deputy Governor, Mr. Rauf Olaniyan. This legal move challenges his impeachment by the State House of Assembly. The appeal, involving key respondents such as the Oyo State House of Assembly, Clerk, Chief Justice of Oyo State, the Attorney-General, and Kayode Christopher, will undergo a thorough examination by the appellate court.

The appeal panel, led by Justice Yargata Nimpa, made this decision after granting an extension of time for the brief of argument filed by counsel to the first and second respondents, Mr. Samuel Oyadoyin. Additionally, the panel accepted the appellant’s counsel, Mr. Kazeem Gbadamosi, SAN’s motion to recognize the appellant’s reply brief from November 23, 2023, as properly filed before the court.

During the proceedings, Mr. O.A. Ogunniran, Director of Litigation in the state Ministry of Justice, representing the third to fifth respondents, expressed no opposition to the application and motion.

Justice Bayo Taiwo of Oyo State High Court had previously upheld the constitutionality of Olaniyan’s impeachment in a judgment on January 9, 2023. Discontent with this decision, Olaniyan turned to the appellate court, seeking to overturn the judgment due to alleged non-compliance with constitutional provisions and a lack of fair hearing in the impeachment process.

The former deputy governor faced impeachment over charges of financial recklessness, misconduct, insubordination, and other allegations brought forth by the state assembly. The upcoming hearing on February 8 will be a crucial step in determining the fate of Olaniyan’s appeal.