An Edo State High court, in Benin city, presided over by Honourable Justice Efe Ikpomnwonba has restrained the Edo State government from interrupting, obstructing and or disturbing the 18 Local Government Council chairmen from exercising their constitutional sovereignty and dominion over their bank accounts.
The order was issued after the House of Assembly suspended the local government officials on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
The suit appeared to have targeted the State government from tapering with LG funds.
The State House of Assembly had earlier on Tuesday, suspended all the Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Councils over allegation of misappropriation of funds.
The decision was taken during the plenary after a heated debate by the various lawmakers representing the local councils.
Meanwhile, the heads of the various legislative arm have been directed to oversee the running of the councils for the next two months.
As of the time of filing this report, it was not immediately clear whether the State Assembly or the executive arm would appeal this judgment.
The suspension of the council chairmen and their deputies was sequel to a motion moved by the member representing Esan North East 1, Isibor Adeh and seconded by the member representing Akoko-Edo 2, Mr Donald Okogbe.
The state governor, Monday Okpebholo, had earlier written a petition to the House over the refusal of the chairmen to submit financial records of their local government to the state government.
READ ALSO: Edo Govt cracks down on illegal revenue collection, suspends consultants
In the letter, Okpebholo, who described their action as an act of insubordination and gross misconduct, requested the House to look into the matter.
When the matter came up for debate, 14 members supported the motion for their suspension, six of them were opposed to the motion while three members refused to either support or oppose the motion.
The speaker of the House, Blessing Agbebaku told the members that all of them must speak on the matter.
Agbebaku said: “I will implore that all members of the house speak on this matter before a decision is taken.”
Credible News recalls that last month to further curb illegal activities, the government suspended all consultancy services and related service providers within the public sector to address unauthorized revenue collection by illegal agents and touts.
Financial dealings with these consultants are to be halted until a review committee, appointed by the governor, submits its findings. This directive mandates strict compliance from all heads of ministries, departments, and agencies.
Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor encouraged residents to report any unauthorized collectors to the police, affirming that offenders will face arrest and prosecution. The government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare and property of Edo citizens.
Credible News.ng
