The Ondo State Government has said it will safeguard the interest of its citizens after an Ondo State High Court in Akure declared the creation of the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) by the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu as unconstitutional and illegal.

According to the presiding judge, Justice A.O Adebusuoye, the LCDAs were not lawfully created.

But responding to the court ruling the government in a statement on Friday, said it would employ all necessary measures, under its laws, to safeguard the interests of its citizens, foster peaceful coexistence, and uphold the rule of law on the matter.

“The Honourable Attorney General of Ondo State, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, OON, SAN has taken cognizance of the Ondo State High Court’s recent judgment nullifying the creation of the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).”

“In response, the Honourable Attorney General has promptly requested the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment. Upon receipt, a meticulous study and analysis will be undertaken, culminating in a comprehensive legal opinion to the Government of Ondo State.

“Subsequently, all necessary measures, in accordance with our laws, will be taken to safeguard the interests of our citizens, foster peaceful coexistence, and uphold the rule of law.

“TheHonourable Attorney General remains steadfast in his commitment to prioritising the well-being and welfare of our citizens, working tirelessly to ensure that justice and the law are served,” the statement read.

Akeredolu had in September 2023, signed the bill establishing the councils into law after it was passed by the state House of Assembly members, after the third reading.

The newly created LCDAs were co-existing with the 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state, bringing the total to 51.

Akeredolu was a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), ex-president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and ex-Attorney General of Ondo State.

He governed Ondo from February 24, 2017, till his death on December 27, 2023. His deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, was immediately sworn in as governor. (Channels TV)