Edo LG Chairmen Condemn Suspension, Cite Supreme Court Ruling Violation
Edo State’s 18 local government chairmen have denounced their suspension by the Edo State House of Assembly, calling it a breach of the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy.
The chairmen, joined by their deputies, highlighted a recent judgment by the Edo State Chief Judge and an interim court order prohibiting actions against them.
Newman Ugiagbe, chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Edo State chapter, and chairman of Orhionmwon Local Government Area, led the officials in addressing journalists on Wednesday at the NUJ Secretariat in Benin.
“Our tenure, which began on September 4, 2023, runs until September 2026. We are democratically elected, not appointed. Our tenure is constitutionally protected,” Ugiagbe said.
The suspension was reportedly triggered by a petition from Governor Monday Okpebholo, alleging gross misconduct by the council chairmen under Section 10(1) of the Edo State Local Government Law (2000).
However, Ugiagbe argued that the state law conflicts with Section 7(1) and (4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which ensures local government autonomy. He referenced a ruling by the Edo State High Court in Suit No. B/257oS/2024, which declared Section 10(1) of the state law unconstitutional and void. The court ruled that any move to suspend or dissolve elected councils before their term ends is beyond the governor’s authority.
A reminder of this judgment and an interim order restraining interference in council administration was reportedly served to the Speaker of the House of Assembly earlier on Wednesday.
The chairmen also called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police, DSS, and NSCDC, to safeguard council assets and uphold the court’s rulings.
In defense of the Assembly’s actions, Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, stated that a panel of inquiry would determine the fate of the suspended officials.
