Alex Enumah in Abuja
As a Federal High Court in Abuja, prepares to deliver its judgment in the leadership tussle in the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), the Board of Trustees (BoT) has called on the Inspector General (IG) of Police and other security agencies to intervene and prevent anything that would negate the outcome of the court’s decision.
Specifically, the Board is calling on the IG to curb what it described as the alleged “excesses” of Mr. Alabi David against the interest of the association.
Recall that Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja had on February 16, fixed April 30, for judgment in the suit seeking the removal of Mr David as ALGON’s President.
However, the court during the week communicated to parties that the verdict of the court has been brought forward to April 19.
Meanwhile, the plaintiff in the suit have expressed worries over the conduct of the defendant, whom they said still go about holding meetings with some 5 Local Government Council
Chairmen from across the country.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Chairman of the BOT, Honourable Shaban Ohinoyi Shuaibu, observed that the conduct of the defendant was aimed at legitimizing his further stay in office or unconstitutionally install another person as a surrogate just as himself.
Shuaibu stated that in view of the subsisting matter before the court, stakeholders should await the decision of the judiciary on the constitutionality of the 774 Local Governments in Nigeria, which Bariga Development Area is not a part of.
“It is crucial to highlight that legal recourse has been sought, at a Federal High Court in Abuja to address this grievous situation.
“The court’s judgment is been awaited. And as the registered trustees of ALGON, we will continue to restrict our constitutional responsibilities while awaiting pronouncement of the court.
“We urge all stakeholders to remain vigilant and steadfast in upholding the sanctity of our democratic processes. ALGON, as a vital
component of our governance structure, must operate within the confines of the law, with leadership duly elected from the grassroots
level.
“Let it be known that any attempts to subvert the principles of democracy will be met with resolute action, as we remain committed to upholding the rule of law and preserving the integrity of our democratic institutions.
“We therefore invite the Inspector General of Police , DG DSS andother security agencies to curb the excesses of ALABI KOLADE DAVID,
to avoid heating up the Polity,” he said.
He maintained that ALGON comprises 774 Local Governments in Nigeria and that while legal battle is ongoing, in the interim, the Trustees (BOT) of ALGON, as mandated by the ALGON constitution mandates trustees to hold and carry out all responsibilities and oversees the affairs of ALGON.
He added, “First and foremost, it is instructive to let the public know that, since Mr Alabi’s wrongful claim to the office of the Presidency, ALGON has been emersed in the present court case known as ” Incorporated Trustees of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) & 2 ORS Vs Federal Ministry of Finance of Nigeria & 7 Ors, Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1609/2024, any activities carried out by any of the parties in the name of ALGON until the final determination of the cases is null and void.
“It is also enshrined in the ALGON constitution that the registered board of trustees are charged to conduct elections into leadership within the shortest period possible.”
The briefing was attended by BOT members including Honorable Chukwudi Fred Ezinwa (BOT Secretary) and Honorable Ben Kure (BOT PRO).
