The Edo Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has faulted the suspension of chairmen in the 18 local government areas (LGAs) of Edo by the House of Assembly.
A statement by Dr Anthony Aziegbemi, the state PDP Chairman yesterday – Tuesday, December 17 – in Benin, described the action as unconstitutional, null, and void.
He noted that the suspension disregarded the recent ruling of the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, even as he also warned that the suspension came as a blatant violation of the Supreme Court’s decision, affirming the autonomy and independence of local governments, as guaranteed under 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,” he said.
He noted that local council chairmen are not subordinates of the Governor, the State Assembly, or any other arm of government.
He expressed concern over the complete disregard for the Constitution and the judiciary’s rulings.
“We are also aware that the Chairmen and their vice chairmen were not given the opportunity to defend themselves.
” They were suspended without being heard, based on watery, trumped-up charges,” the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted Aziegbemi as saying.
Stressing that such actions are not only illegal but also a direct assault on democracy and the rule of law, the Edo PDP Chairman said: “The Constitution remains supreme, and any attempt to undermine it must be resisted.”
Aziegbemi said the Speaker and the entire Edo House of Assembly clearly exceeded their constitutional mandates by carrying out the illegal action.
He urged the Assembly to immediately reverse its decision in respect for the rule of law and the principles of democratic governance.
He emphasized that adherence to the Constitution is non-negotiable, stating: “We therefore direct the council chairmen and their vice chairmen to report to their councils tomorrow and carry on with their normal duties.”
He also called on the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation to intervene, stating that the state government’s actions constituted a breach of the Constitution and a threat to security.
