Some constitutional lawyers on Wednesday argued that Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has the constitutional authority to govern the state from anywhere in the world.
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This follows recent debates over Akeredolu’s prolonged absence from Ondo due to medical treatment in Germany. The lawyers stated there are no constitutional provisions mandating a governor to reside in their state.
Human rights lawyer, Morakinyo Ogele, noted that the constitution does not require governors to live in their state. He said Akeredolu has continued fulfilling his duties and no one has accused him of not performing his constitutional role per Section 189.
Ogele explained that the governor is entitled to seek medical care abroad as a human being prone to sickness. He stated what matters is that governance in Ondo has continued smoothly during Akeredolu’s absence.
However, lawyer Olayiwola Afolabi countered that although Akeredolu has not breached the constitution, he should have addressed Ondo residents publicly since returning from Germany.
Meanwhile, David Ebriku remarked there is no law forcing the governor’s physical presence or residence in Ondo. He reiterated that things have progressed well with Akeredolu governing from abroad.
The legal experts cited clauses in the constitution allowing governors discretion on where to operate from. But they highlighted the need for transparency, as an absentee governor should update citizens to inspire public confidence.
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