Edo LG Chairmen Reject Suspension, vow to continue in office

From Moshood Karim

The 18 Local Government Chairmen in Edo State have categorically rejected their suspension from office by the Edo State House of Assembly, describing the decision as unlawful and unconstitutional.

They declared their intent to continue discharging their official duties, citing legal backing and on-going court orders in their favour.

 

At a press conference on Wednesday in Benin City, the Chairmen, led by Deacon Newman Ugiagbe, Chairman of the Orhionmwon Local Government Council and the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) in Edo State, criticised the suspension as a violation of court rulings. According to Ugiagbe, prior judicial judgments explicitly affirmed the tenure of the Chairmen and restricted the State government from interfering in the affairs of the local councils.

 

“Our tenure is constitutionally guaranteed for three years, starting from September 4, 2023. The suspension violates the judgment of the High Court, which declared the relevant section of the Edo State Local Government Law, 2000, unconstitutional,” Ugiagbe stated. He further referenced a recent Supreme Court decision that reinforced the independence of local government councils from undue interference by state governments.

 

The Chairmen argued that their suspension, initiated by Governor Monday Okpebholo and approved by the State Assembly on December 17, 2024, constitutes contempt of court, as an interim order restraining such actions had already been served. They also appealed to security agencies, including the police and Department of State Services (DSS), to protect council properties and ensure their safety as they continue their duties.

 

In response, Dr. Samson Osagie, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, defended the House of Assembly's actions, insisting that the suspensions were in line with the law. He dismissed the Chairmen’s claims of legal immunity, urging them to respect the suspension while awaiting the outcome of investigations into their conduct.

 

“The suspension does not dismantle the democratic structure of the local government system in Edo State,” Osagie clarified. “This action is temporary, pending a two-month investigation by the Assembly’s panel of inquiry. Those found culpable may face further sanctions, while others will be reinstated.”

 

Osagie also warned the Chairmen against resuming office during the suspension period, describing any such move as a threat to law and order. “Edo State has one Chief Security Officer, and that is the Governor. Any attempt to defy constituted authority will not be tolerated,” he said.

 

The Attorney-General emphasised that financial autonomy granted to local governments does not exempt them from accountability. He noted that allegations of financial mismanagement by some council leaders had prompted the Assembly’s decision.