Edo Councillors Impeach LG Chairmen Amid Claims of Unconstitutionality
In Edo State, the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government’s efforts to remove local government chairmen escalated on Monday as councillors impeached Dr. Kelly Ehidiamen Inedegbor and Hon. Thomas Otiobhili of Esan North East, along with Hon. Tajudeen Alade and his deputy in Akoko-Edo.
The impeachments, reportedly based on allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and oath violations, were met with pushback from the chairmen, who claimed the actions violated due process.
Impeachment Developments
In Esan North East, councillors led by Hon. Paul Uhumesi acted on a notice from two colleagues alleging the chairmen eroded public trust and misused their positions. Alongside these proceedings, three councillors were suspended for undisclosed reasons.
In Akoko-Edo, councillors convened at the legislative chambers, announced the impeachment, and appointed Hon. Alabi Oshionogue as Acting Chairman. The legislative leader was replaced by Hon. Tope Jacob. Oshionogue pledged to recover missing council assets and nullified previous appointments made by Alade.
Reactions from Chairmen
Hon. Alade described his suspension as illegal, accusing political rivals of orchestrating the move to access council funds. He criticized the lack of adherence to impeachment procedures, labeling the act as carried out by a minority.
Similarly, Dr. Inedegbor’s Press Secretary, Okonofua Osemobor, denounced the process, citing the absence of a 14-day notice and a failure to provide a fair hearing. Osemobor claimed the impeachment was conducted secretly at 12:30 am and alleged forgery and coercion in securing councillor signatures.
Call for Investigation
The chairmen urged security agencies to investigate the allegations of forgery, coercion, and the unauthorized access to council chambers, maintaining that the impeachments were politically motivated and legally flawed.
Observations
Former State Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Kabiru Adjoto, present during the Akoko-Edo proceedings, expressed satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of events.
The unfolding controversy underscores the tension between the state government and local council leadership, raising questions about procedural integrity and political maneuvering in Edo State governance.
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