Seyi Makinde, often hailed as a commendable governor, finds himself in the eye of a legal storm. The Court of Appeal in Abuja has reinforced the Federal Capital Territory High Court’s decision, instructing Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to settle 3.4 billion naira, stemming from a 4.9 billion naira debt triggered by a Supreme Court ruling on May 7, 2021.
The controversial debt emerged from the ousting of APC-affiliated Chairmen and Councillors by Makinde after assuming office in 2019. Despite Makinde’s governance prowess, his perceived lack of regard for the judiciary has now been highlighted by the Court.
Court’s Stance and Makinde’s Challenge
In a unanimous ruling, the Court upheld the earlier decision and criticized Makinde’s behavior, labeling it disrespectful towards the nation’s legal system. The judgment rebuffed Makinde’s appeal, deeming it without merit. Additionally, a penalty of 50 million naira was imposed on Makinde and co-appellants, payable to the ex-council members who suffered the ousting.
Justice Danlami Senchi, in the lead judgment, countered the appellants’ arguments, asserting the clarity of the judgment debt amount and dismissing the need for Oyo State Attorney General’s prior consent for the garnishee proceedings initiated by the ex-council chiefs.
The Consequences and Unfulfilled Obligations
Despite the Supreme Court’s directive to pay salaries and allowances to the ousted council members, the Oyo State Government only disbursed 1.5 billion naira, leading the ex-council chiefs to pursue a garnishee proceeding to recover their entitlements.
The High Court of the FCT, in its April 27 ruling, issued a garnishee order compelling Makinde and others to settle the remaining debt in installments, starting with a substantial sum immediately.
This legal tussle not only exposes Makinde’s standoff with the judiciary but also highlights the unresolved financial obligations owed to the affected council members.
What’s your take on this ongoing legal wrangle?
