Edo PDP Faults Suspension of Local Government Chairmen by State Assembly

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has criticized the suspension of local government chairmen across the 18 councils of the state by the Edo State House of Assembly, describing the action as unconstitutional.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Benin, the Edo State PDP Chairman, Anthony Aziegbemi, labeled the suspension as null and void, citing a disregard for the recent ruling of the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa.

According to Aziegbemi, the suspension violates the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming the autonomy and independence of local governments, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“How can a governor direct the State Assembly to suspend democratically elected chairmen of the 18 local councils for insubordination when these officials enjoy autonomy and independence as enshrined in the Constitution?” Aziegbemi queried.

InfoStride News recalls that the State House of Assembly recently suspended all 18 local government chairmen and their vice chairmen over allegations of insubordination and gross misconduct.

The PDP chairman further argued that the local government chairmen are not subordinates of the governor, the State Assembly, or any other arm of government.

He expressed concern over the apparent disregard for constitutional provisions and judicial rulings, noting that the chairmen and their deputies were suspended without being given an opportunity to defend themselves.

“They were suspended unheard, based on watery, trumped-up charges,” Aziegbemi said, adding that the actions were illegal and a direct assault on democracy and the rule of law.

He accused the Speaker and the Edo House of Assembly of exceeding their constitutional powers and urged them to reverse the suspension to uphold democratic principles.

“The adherence to the Constitution is non-negotiable,” Aziegbemi emphasized, calling on the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation to intervene, as the actions of the state government posed a threat to the Constitution and national security.