The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has condemned the suspension of local government chairpersons and their deputies in Edo State as unconstitutional and illegal. Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, Mr. Fagbemi asserted that the action violated the autonomy of local councils, which was upheld by a Supreme Court ruling on July 11, 2024.
“The governor has no right to remove any local government chairman under the current legal framework,” Mr. Fagbemi stated. He further clarified, “Since the Supreme Court ruling of July 11, 2024, it has been clear that the removal of any local government chairman or official is the sole prerogative of the local council through its legislative body.”
The controversy began earlier this month when Governor Monday Okpebholo directed the 18 council chairpersons to submit their financial statements covering the period from September 2023 to date. Their refusal prompted the governor to announce their suspension, a move strongly criticized by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“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?” the PDP questioned in a statement.
Adding to the growing scrutiny, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into the financial activities of the local governments. On December 17, the anti-graft agency issued a letter summoning chairpersons from multiple local councils, including Akoko-Edo, Egor, Esan Central, Esan North East, Esan South East, and Esan West, to appear at its office on Thursday, December 19.
Chairpersons from other councils, including Etsako Central, Etsako East, Etsako West, Igueben, Ikpoba Okha, Orhionmwon, Ovia North East, Ovia South West, Owan East, Owan West, and Uhunmwode, are scheduled to report on Friday, December 20.
The EFCC has requested certified copies of documents such as staff strength and payroll records, details of accounts used for salary payments, reserve accounts for salary exigencies, and account statements from January 1 to date.
As tensions mount, the situation underscores the importance of constitutional adherence and transparency in local government administration.