The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has faulted the suspension of the 18 local council chairmen and their deputies by the State House of Assembly.
The House had earlier on Tuesday suspended the local council officials for alleged insubordination and gross misconduct.
However, in a statement issued on Tuesday night in Benin City, the PDP chairman in the state, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, described the action as unconstitutional, null, and void.
He noted that the suspension disregarded the recent ruling of the Edo State Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa.
Aziegbemi insisted that the suspension was a blatant violation of the Supreme Court’s decision, which affirmed the autonomy and independence of local governments as guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution.
He said: “How can a governor direct the State Assembly to suspend democratically elected chairmen of the 18 local councils for insubordination when these officials enjoy autonomy and independence as enshrined in the Constitution.”
He noted that local council chairmen were not subordinates of the governor, the State Assembly, or any other arm of government.
He expressed concern over the complete disregard for the Constitution and the judiciary’s rulings.
“We are also aware that the chairmen and their vice chairmen were not allowed to defend themselves.
“They were suspended unheard, based on watery, trumped-up charges.”
The PDP chairman stressed that such actions were not only illegal but also a direct assault on democracy and the rule of law.
“The constitution remains supreme, and any attempt to undermine it must be resisted,” he added.
Aziegbemi said the Speaker and the entire House had clearly exceeded their constitutional mandates by carrying out the illegal action.
He urged the Assembly to immediately reverse its decision with respect for the rule of law and the principles of democratic governance.
He noted that adherence to the constitution was non-negotiable.
“We therefore direct the council chairmen and their vice chairmen to report to their councils tomorrow and carry on with their normal duties,” Aziegbemi said.
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