Edo PDP Slams Unconstitutional Suspension of Local Government Chairmen
The recent suspension of the Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Edo State by the State House of Assembly, under the directive of Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, has sparked outrage and condemnation from the state’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In a strongly worded statement, the PDP, through its Chairman, Anthony Aziegbemi, decried the action as unconstitutional, unlawful, and a brazen disregard for the rule of law and democratic principles.
A Violation of Constitutional Autonomy
The suspension, which reportedly occurred without granting the affected Chairmen the opportunity to defend themselves, is a blatant violation of constitutional provisions guaranteeing the autonomy and independence of local governments. The PDP referenced recent rulings by the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, and the Supreme Court that unequivocally affirmed local governments’ autonomy as enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution.
“How can a governor direct the State Assembly to suspend democratically elected chairmen for insubordination when these officials are autonomous and not subordinate to the Governor or any other arm of government?” the statement queried.
This action undermines the constitutional foundation of Nigeria’s federal structure, where local governments are meant to operate independently to serve the interests of their constituents.
Suspension Without Due Process
The PDP further criticized the manner in which the suspension was carried out, highlighting the absence of due process. The Chairmen were neither given the opportunity to respond to the allegations nor subjected to a fair hearing. This disregard for constitutional provisions and procedural fairness sets a dangerous precedent, eroding confidence in democratic institutions and processes.
The party described the charges against the Chairmen as “watery and trumped-up,” emphasizing that such actions represent an alarming assault on democracy and the rule of law.
An Overreach by the State Assembly
The Edo State House of Assembly has also come under fire for acting beyond its constitutional mandate. The PDP labeled the Assembly’s actions as not only illegal but also indicative of a lack of respect for judicial authority and constitutional supremacy.
By succumbing to what the PDP termed as “political directives” from the Governor, the State Assembly has positioned itself as a tool for executive overreach rather than a guardian of democracy and a check on power.
Call for Reversal and Federal Intervention
The PDP has demanded an immediate reversal of the suspension, urging the Chairmen to resume their duties at their respective councils without fear. It called on the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to intervene and halt what it described as an unconstitutional and destabilizing action by the Edo State Governor.
“The Governor’s directive is not only in breach of the Constitution but also a direct threat to the security and stability of Edo State,” the PDP warned.
A Threat to Democracy
This incident underscores a broader challenge in Nigeria’s democratic evolution: the persistent undermining of local government autonomy. The actions of the Edo State Governor and the State Assembly represent a troubling trend where constitutional provisions are disregarded for political expediency, jeopardizing the democratic process.
Such incidents, if not addressed, risk eroding public trust in governance and perpetuating a cycle of executive impunity. The PDP’s strong stance on the matter highlights the need for vigilance and collective resistance against actions that undermine the rule of law.
The suspension of the 18 LGA Chairmen in Edo State is a glaring affront to Nigeria’s Constitution and democratic ethos. It reflects a dangerous encroachment on local government autonomy and a disregard for judicial rulings.
As the PDP and other stakeholders push back against this action, it is imperative for the Federal Government and civil society to join forces in defending the rule of law and ensuring that constitutional provisions are upheld. Failure to do so would not only undermine democracy in Edo State but also set a damaging precedent for governance across Nigeria.
Reference
Edo PDP Slams Unconstitutional Suspension of Local Government Chairmen