Edo PDP Urges Council Chairmen To Go Back To Office Following Court Ruling 

By Simeon OSAJIE

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the 18 Local Government Council Chairmen in the state to go back to work in their respective Council areas following the 20 December judgement of the Edo State High Ruling stating that the Edo State government lacks the power to suspend or sack the Local Government Chairmen. 

In a press release signed by the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Chris Nehikhare said the decision was taken at an emergency meeting of the state Caretaker Committee of the party with the Council chairmen and leaders of the  Legislative arms of the various Councils. 

Nehikhare pointed out that a communique was issued at the end of the meeting and also resolved and advised the legislative leaders to ensure they don’t make themselves available for manipulation by the Edo State government. 

According to the statement, “Council chairmen are urged to return to their respective council secretariats and continue to serve the constituents who elected them, reaffirming their commitment to local government area.

“Legislative leaders are advised to remain vigilant against the deceptive offers presented to them. The law is explicit regarding their responsibilities, and they must resist any attempts to compromise their integrity. The state government has faced significant backlash and condemnation from the judiciary and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) regarding its illegal actions, yet continues to deflect blame onto the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA).

“The councils resolved to pursue legal action against any individuals, including Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGAs) and Treasurers, who, without the authority of the council chairmen, tamper with council resources.

“In light of the recent denials and the shifting of responsibility to the EDHA, the party, alongside the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), will be sending a letter to the EDHA demanding the immediate implementation of existing court judgments related to council suspensions.

“The party strongly condemns the ongoing intimidation, manipulation, and blackmail tactics employed by the APC-led state government, aimed at coercing council leaders into endorsing illegal actions that would allow for the looting of council funds.

“Local government leaders stand united in their resolve to protect the interests of their constituents and uphold the rule of law”.