The Edo chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has faulted the suspension of chairpersons in the 18 local governments by the Edo House of Assembly.

A statement by Anthony Aziegbemi, the PDP chairman in Edo, on Tuesday in Benin, described the action as unconstitutional, null, and void. He noted that the suspension disregarded the recent ruling of the chief judge of the state, Justice Daniel Okungbowa.

Mr Aziegbemi claimed 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 Constitution.

“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 said.

He noted local council chairs were not subordinates of the governor, the parliament, or any other arm of government. He expressed concern over completely disregarding the Constitution and the judiciary’s rulings.

“We are also aware that the chairmen and their vice chairmen were not given the opportunity to defend themselves. They were suspended unheard, based on watery, trumped-up charges,” Mr Aziegbemi said.

He stressed that such actions were illegal and 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 that the Speaker and the entire Edo House of Assembly had exceeded their constitutional mandates by carrying out the illegal action.

He urged the Assembly to immediately reverse its decision regarding the rule of law and the principles of democratic governance. He emphasised 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,” Mr Aziegbemi said.

He also called on the attorney general of the Federation to intervene, stating that the Edo government’s actions constituted a breach of the Constitution and a threat to security.

(NAN)