HIGH COURT REINSTATES SUSPENDED 18 EDO STATE COUNCIL CHAIRMEN

THE High Court sitting in Benin, Edo State, has reinstated the 18 local government council chairpersons and their deputies suspended in the state.

Additionally, the court on Friday, December 20, 2024 instructed the defendants (Governor, Edo State Government, Attorney General of Edo State, among others) to refrain from implementing the resolution of the House of Assembly that allegedly suspended them.

Recall that the Edo State House of Assembly suspended the chairpersons and their deputies due to their alleged failure to submit their annual stewardship reports to the state government.

However, on Thursday, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), declared the suspension to be unlawful, pointing out that only the local government legislative councils have the constitutional power to suspend elected chairpersons or their deputies.

In response to the court’s verdict, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed approval of the ruling and urged the suspended officials to return to their duties promptly.

In a statement released on Friday by the state party chairman, Anthony Aziegbemi, the PDP called for all stakeholders to honour the court’s decision in the interest of peace and adherence to the law.

“This significant ruling represents a victory for the people of Edo, democracy, and the rule of law. We commend the judiciary for steadfastly supporting truth and justice, protecting our democracy.

“We encourage the reinstated officials to recommence their duties immediately and persist in their efforts toward grassroots development and impactful governance for the welfare of their communities.”

The PDP also urged security agencies to safeguard the local government councils and ensure that the officials can carry out their constitutional duties without harassment or intimidation.