Osun civil society demands clarity over Gov Adeleke’s absence

The Osun Civil Society Coalition (OCSC) has demanded that the Osun State Government clarify whether Governor Ademola Adeleke has officially transferred the powers and duties of his office to his deputy, Kola Adewusi, while the governor is on vacation abroad. The coalition released this request in a statement on Tuesday, following Adeleke's announcement that he had departed for Europe for a vacation.

According to the statement, "Adeleke’s statement, issued on Sunday, September 6, confirmed that he had left Nigeria and would also undergo medical examinations during his time away from the country." While acknowledging Adeleke's constitutional right to take a vacation, the coalition emphasized the need for transparency and adherence to the constitutional procedure for temporary absence.

They referenced Section 190(1) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria's Constitution of 1999, as amended, which mandates the Governor to provide written notification to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly when he is temporarily unable to carry out his official duties. The coalition urged the Osun State Government to publicly confirm whether Adeleke has submitted the necessary written declaration to the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly.

They stated that such disclosure would foster transparency and constitutional accountability in the administration of the state during the Governor's absence. If the required constitutional procedure has not been completed, the coalition called for the government to take immediate action.