Olakunle Oluomo, the recently impeached Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, has vehemently rejected his removal by 18 lawmakers, insisting on his continued role as Speaker. In a press briefing held on Friday at the legislative quarters, Oluomo described his ousting as “unconstitutional,” revealing his decision to seek legal recourse.

Oluomo’s impeachment, which occurred on Tuesday and led to Oludaisi Elemide of the Odeda Constituency assuming the Speaker role, has been marred by controversy. The embattled Speaker claims he has been the target of harassment by some lawmakers since the start of his second term.

During his press statement in Ibara GRA, Oluomo conveyed his disappointment at the lack of intervention from the government and party leadership. He stated, “Having hoped for an intervention, I’ve decided to address the press and pursue legal action.”

Oluomo expressed his gratitude towards the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, for his attempted mediation in the Assembly’s crisis. However, he highlighted ongoing tensions with members who opposed his second term as Speaker. “I respect the Assembly’s right to choose its leadership, but due process must be followed,” he asserted.

The former Speaker was taken aback by the timing of his impeachment notice, receiving it a day after the alleged impeachment, which he argues contradicts the Assembly’s standing rules. He has since approached the Ogun State High Court, challenging what he termed his “gestapo impeachment.” The court has scheduled a hearing for February 7.

Oluomo was ousted on accusations of gross misconduct, highhandedness, lack of focus and transparency, financial misappropriation, and inciting discord among members. His successor, Oludaisi Elemide, assured the public of a renewed commitment to law and order and support for the governor.

Damilola Soneye, an APC lawmaker, emphasized the reasons behind Oluomo’s impeachment, citing poor leadership and financial improprieties. “The decision was necessary for the betterment of our state’s governance,” Soneye explained.

As the political drama unfolds in Ogun State, the legal system is poised to play a crucial role in determining the legitimacy of Oluomo’s impeachment. This development is not just a matter of state politics but also a test of democratic processes and the rule of law in Nigeria.