Edo PDP Slams Suspension of LG Chairmen, Calls It Illegal

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the suspension of all 18 Local Government Chairmen by the State House of Assembly, acting on the directive of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

In a statement signed by PDP Chairman Anthony Aziegbemi, the party described the suspension as “unconstitutional, null, and void,” accusing the governor and Assembly of disregarding recent judicial rulings.

“How can a governor direct the State Assembly to suspend democratically elected chairmen… when these elected officials enjoy autonomy and independence as enshrined in the Constitution?” Aziegbemi asked, emphasizing that the suspended officials were not even given a chance to defend themselves against what he called “trumped up charges.”

The PDP cited the Supreme Court’s affirmation of local government autonomy and a recent ruling by Edo’s Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, as proof that the suspensions violate the law.

The party urged the Assembly to reverse its decision immediately, warning that undermining the Constitution threatens democracy and rule of law. It also directed the suspended Chairmen and Vice Chairmen to return to work and called on the Attorney General of the Federation to intervene.

“We therefore direct the council chairmen… to report to their councils tomorrow to carry on with their normal duties,” the statement concluded.