Power Struggle In Edo: State Govt Supports Okpebholo’s Suspension Of Chairmen

Power Struggle In Edo: State Govt Supports Okpebholo’s Suspension Of Chairmen

The Edo State Government has come out in support of Governor Monday Okpebholo following the suspension of 18 local government chairmen in the state. This decision came after the Edo State House of Assembly acted on the governor’s request, which was made…Power Struggle In Edo: State Govt Supports Okpebholo’s Suspension Of Chairmen

on December 17.

Governor Okpebholo accused the suspended chairmen and their deputies of insubordination and misconduct, citing their failure to submit their financial statements. Despite the public outcry, with legal experts and stakeholders referencing the Supreme Court’s stance on local government autonomy, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, defended the decision.

In a statement issued on Friday, Itua explained that the governor’s actions were entirely legal and justified. He pointed out that both the state assembly and the governor have the constitutional right to oversee the local governments. He emphasized that while local government autonomy is crucial, it does not mean that council chairmen are exempt from oversight.

The statement also clarified that the suspension was not a punishment, but a step toward a thorough investigation of the activities of the 18 chairmen, who are currently being probed by the EFCC. This investigation highlights the need for accountability in governance.

Itua further stressed that while the opposition may criticize the move, a more thorough understanding reveals that the actions taken by the Edo State House of Assembly and Governor Okpebholo are within the bounds of the law. The chairmen were suspended, not removed, to allow for a full investigation into their alleged misconduct.

The statement concluded by reiterating that the Governor, in collaboration with the Assembly, is exercising oversight as per their constitutional powers to ensure proper governance in the state.

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