The Edo State House of Assembly on Tuesday passed a resolution suspending the chairmen and vice chairmen of all 18 local government councils in the state for two months. The decision also mandated the leaders of the legislative arms of the councils to assume interim leadership roles.
The suspension followed a motion moved by Isibor Adeh, representing Esan North East 1, and seconded by Akoko-Edo 2 representative, Donald Okogbe. This action was reportedly based on a petition from Governor Monday Okpebholo, who accused the council chairmen of refusing to submit their financial records to the state government, describing the act as insubordination and gross misconduct.
During the debate in the House, 14 members supported the motion for suspension, six opposed it, while three remained neutral. Speaker Blessing Agbebaku directed all members to voice their opinions before the decision was finalized. The House Clerk, Yahaya Omogbai, conducted a headcount to record members’ positions on the matter.
PDP Condemns Action
The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State strongly criticized the suspension, calling it unconstitutional and a direct attack on democracy. In a statement issued by its Caretaker Chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, the PDP described the move as an illegal act executed without giving the suspended officials an opportunity to defend themselves.
“The suspension of the 18 LG chairmen and their deputies by the Edo State House of Assembly, acting on Governor Okpebholo’s directive, is unconstitutional, null, and void,” the statement read.
The PDP referenced a recent ruling by Justice Daniel Okungbowa, Chief Judge of Edo State, and a Supreme Court judgment affirming the autonomy and independence of local governments. The party argued that these rulings prevent state governments from interfering in local government operations.
“How can a governor direct the suspension of democratically elected officials who are constitutionally autonomous and independent? These actions blatantly disregard the Constitution and judicial rulings,” Aziegbemi added.
The PDP further accused the state government and the Assembly of failing to follow due process, alleging that the suspended officials were not given a chance to defend themselves against the accusations.
“The Constitution remains supreme, and any attempt to undermine it is an attack on democracy and the rule of law. The Edo State House of Assembly must immediately reverse this decision,” the party demanded.
Response from LG Chairmen
Speaking anonymously, one of the suspended LG chairmen said the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Edo State would soon issue an official position on the matter.
This development marks yet another clash between the state government and opposition parties, with both sides accusing each other of disregarding constitutional provisions and democratic principles.