The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Friday, 17 November 2023, refused to grant an application by Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State asking it to vacate its 26 September 2023, interim order.

The interim order, made by the court following an ex parte motion by Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, had restrained Akeredolu from nominating a new deputy governor and forwarding the same to the lawmakers for approval, pending the hearing and determination of the interlocutory application.

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Following an application by Akeredolu’s counsel on Friday, 17 November 2023, for vacation of the interim order, the judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, said in a ruling that the court lacked jurisdiction to make such a pronouncement.

The judge adjourned the suit indefinitely instead.

According to the judge, the adjournment was because the Speaker and the State House of Assembly had filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal in respect of the issue before him.

He also refused to grant Akeredolu and the Speaker’s request to strike out or dismiss the suit for lack of jurisdiction.

The judge held that it would be wise for the court to adjourn the matter “sine die” (indefinitely) pending the outcome of the appeal to avoid judicial rascality.

It would be recalled that the Speaker and the Assembly had, on 20 October 2023 appealed against the interim order made by Justice Nwite on 26 September 2023.