by The Edo State House of Assembly has suspended the chairmen and vice chairmen of the state’s 18 local government councils for two months. This decision was made after a motion by Isibor Adeh and seconded by Donald Okogbe.
Governor Monday Okpebholo had earlier complained to the House that the chairmen refused to submit their financial records. He called this refusal insubordination and gross misconduct.
During the debate, 14 members supported the suspension, six opposed it, and three were neutral. Speaker Blessing Agbebaku asked all members to speak before the decision was made. The Clerk of the House, Yahaya Omogbai, counted the votes.
The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemned the suspension. PDP Caretaker Chairman Tony Aziegbemi said the chairmen were not given a chance to defend themselves, calling the suspension unconstitutional.
The PDP argued that the governor does not have the power to demand financial statements from the LGs, citing a Supreme Court ruling that grants LGs autonomy. They urged the Assembly to reverse its decision.
An anonymous LG chairman said the Association of Local Government of Nigeria in the state would respond soon.
