Edo State’s political landscape has taken a dramatic turn with the suspension of all 18 elected local government council chairmen.
The Edo State House of Assembly unanimously suspended all the 18 elected local government council chairmen in the state, citing allegations of insubordination and gross misconduct. This decision, made during a plenary session on Tuesday, follows a formal petition submitted by Governor Monday Okpebholo, who voiced concerns regarding the council chairmen’s failure to provide essential financial records to the state.
In his petition, Governor Okpebholo characterized the actions of the local government heads as a blatant disregard for state directives, further emphasizing the necessity for accountability. “The conduct of the local government chairmen has not only undermined the authority of the state government but also jeopardized the financial oversight required for effective governance,” he stated.
As a result of this suspension, the House has appointed interim leadership from the legislative bodies within the local councils to manage operations for the next two months, ensuring continuity of governance during this period of transition.
The motion for the suspension was introduced by Mr. Isibor Addeh, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) representing Esan North-East I, and received support from Donald Okogbe of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who represents Akoko-Edo II. Following thorough debate, the assembly voted 14 in favor, with six opposing and three members abstaining.
The governor had previously issued a directive on December 3, 2024, demanding that all local government chairmen submit their financial accounts covering the period from September 4, 2023, to the present. This report was to be submitted to the Assets Verification Committee, aiming to facilitate effective financial oversight.
The 24-member Edo House of Assembly currently has a predominant representation from the PDP, positioning it as a crucial player in the state’s political landscape as it navigates this unfolding situation.
