On Wednesday, December 18, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State condemned the suspension of the 18 local government chairmen by the State House of Assembly, calling it unconstitutional and void.
In a statement issued in Benin, the PDP Chairman, Anthony Aziegbemi, argued that the suspension violated the recent ruling by the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, as well as the Supreme Court’s affirmation of local governments’ autonomy and independence.
“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 questioned.
The Edo State House of Assembly had suspended all the elected local government chairmen and their vice chairmen for alleged insubordination and gross misconduct. However, Aziegbemi criticized the action, pointing out that the chairmen were not subordinates of the governor or the Assembly.
He also expressed concern over the chairmen’s lack of opportunity to defend themselves, noting that the suspension was based on “watery, trumped-up charges.” He described the action as illegal and an assault on democracy and the rule of law.
Aziegbemi urged the Edo State House of Assembly to immediately reverse its decision, stressing the importance of adhering to the Constitution and upholding democratic principles. He also called on the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation to intervene, citing the state government’s actions as a breach of the Constitution and a potential threat to security.
