The Ogun State chapter of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has urged the state governor, Mr Dapo Abiodun to stop interference in issues affecting their party, stating that the party’s former Chairman, Comrade Sunday Ogini remains expelled.
Ogun State NNPP accused Governor Abiodun of taking side with the former chairman who it said to be accusing its members – Kilamuwaye Badmus and Kehinde Olowu of stealing N7.5 million in a drawer in his office.
The party speaking through its spokesman, Yakubu Shandam said it wondered why the money meant for the party was kept in a drawer in an office, rather than in the party’s bank account.
Shandam in a press conference said members of the party did not go to the office illegally, but that it was done under police protection and could not have stolen money without the knowledge of the police.
“In view of all the above, under normal circumstances, this type of case should not give the accused any concern. But with the visible interference of the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun in the matter, it has become expedient for us as the leaders of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), to alert the world that this alleged move by the Governor of Ogun State is an invitation to anarchy.
“The NNPP in all ramifications is a party that believes in the rule of law. It is an open secret in the Ogun State’s Ministry of Justice that the Governor, Dapo Abiodun is interested in the matter.
“Therefore, we are using this medium to advise Governor Dapo Abiodun to leave the Ogun State judiciary to work without undue interference to be able to dispense justice without fear or favour. We are advising the Governor to face governance, the only reason, why he was elected governor,” Shandam said.
He said the NNPP was aware of what exists between their former Chairman in Ogun State and the governor. “That is not our concern,” the party said
He expressed the confidence of the party in the judiciary and its integrity as the only organ of government without politicians as members.
“This Constitution made the judiciary independent of any other arm. It is the only arm of Government that does not have politicians as members. We have never doubted the integrity of the judiciary. We are therefore calling on the judiciary in Ogun State to continue to maintain their historical integrity.
“Ogun State has a prime place in the history of this country. A State that has produced Statesmen like Late Obafemi Awolowo, Late Simeon Adebo, Late Justice Adetokunbo Ademola, Late Chief MKO Abiola, has something to treasure.
“The Ogun State Judiciary has a huge role to play in maintaining this age-long integrity,” the party added.