The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has strongly condemned the suspension of the chairmen of the state’s 18 Local Government Areas by the Edo State House of Assembly, claiming the action was carried out under the instruction of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The suspension was announced during a plenary session of the Assembly on Tuesday.
In a statement, the PDP argued that the suspension was unconstitutional, null, and void, pointing out that it violated the Constitution of Nigeria and disregarded recent legal rulings in the state. The party highlighted a ruling by Edo State’s Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, and a Supreme Court decision affirming the independence and autonomy of local governments in Nigeria.
The PDP criticized the actions of the State Assembly, asserting that local government officials, including the suspended chairmen, are not subordinate to the governor, the Assembly, or any other government entity. The party emphasized that these elected officials operate independently, as outlined in the Constitution.
The PDP also expressed concern over the lack of due process, noting that the council chairmen and their deputies were not given the opportunity to defend themselves before being suspended. The party described the charges against the officials as baseless and criticized the suspension as a violation of principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
In its statement, the PDP reiterated that the Constitution is supreme and any attempt to undermine its provisions or disregard judicial rulings is not only illegal but also undermines democracy. The party called on the Speaker of the Edo State House of ‘. Assembly and other members to reverse their decision and respect the rule of law.
Furthermore, the PDP directed the suspended chairmen and their vice chairmen to resume their duties at their councils, effective immediately. The party also urged the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation to intervene, holding Governor Okpebholo accountable for actions that the PDP believes threaten the constitutional order and security in the state.
The statement further read, “We are also aware that the Chairmen and their vices weren’t even given the opportunity to be heard in their defence and were suspended unheard on watery trumped up charges, in total disregard to the Constitution.
“We want to restate that the Constitution remains supreme, and any attempt to undermine its provisions or disregard the judiciary and its rulings is not only illegal but also a direct attack on democracy and the rule of law.
“The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly and the entire Assembly have clearly overstepped their constitutional mandates with this illegal action and we urge them to immediately reverse its decision, in respect to the rule of law and democratic governance.
“We therefore direct the council chairmen and their vice chairmen to report to their councils tomorrow to carry on with their normal duties.
“We also invite the Attorney General and minister of justice of the federation to call the Edo State Governor-select to order as his action is not only in breach of the constitution but a threat to security.”
