Governor Okpebholo Accuses Suspended LG Chairmen of N12bn Diversion

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has alleged that the 18 suspended local government council chairmen remitted over N12 billion to leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over 15 months. Speaking during a courtesy visit by acting chairmen and councillors at the Government House, Okpebholo expressed concerns about the mismanagement of funds allocated for environmental security and other developmental purposes.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor revealed discrepancies in council spending, citing “environmental security funding” as a major red flag. He disclosed that each council contributed N800 million monthly without providing any documentation or explanation. Despite repeated invitations for the chairmen to submit their financial records, they failed to comply, prompting the state government to involve the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Edo State House of Assembly.

PDP Dismisses Allegations, Demands Evidence

The Edo State PDP Caretaker Committee Chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, denied Governor Okpebholo’s claims, describing them as baseless and politically motivated. Aziegbemi challenged the governor to provide specific evidence to substantiate the allegations, including details of beneficiaries and payment records.

“No such money was given to PDP leaders,” Aziegbemi insisted. He accused the governor of attempting to justify the suspension of the council chairmen through unsubstantiated claims, urging him to follow due process and report any alleged corruption to anti-corruption agencies. “We live in a state governed by the rule of law. These baseless accusations only undermine the office of the governor,” Aziegbemi added.

Governor Okpebholo Pledges to Strengthen Grassroots Development

Governor Okpebholo emphasized his commitment to improving grassroots development, urging acting chairmen to prioritize the welfare of local communities. “The funds allocated to local governments belong to the people. Use these resources wisely to deliver dividends of democracy,” Governor Okpebholo advised.

The Chairman of the Local Government Commission, Damian Lawani, assured the governor Okpebholo of the acting chairmen’s cooperation in implementing developmental projects. “We are ready to work closely with your administration to ensure the grassroots benefit from good governance,” Lawani stated.

While the allegations and counterclaims persist, the focus remains on addressing governance issues at the local level and ensuring transparency and accountability in public administration.

Suspensions and Legal Battles Surrounding LG Chairmen

The Edo State House of Assembly suspended the 18 local government chairmen and their deputies on December 17, 2024, following a petition from the governor. The resolution cited their refusal to submit financial records as grounds for the suspension. In response, the chairmen approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, which ordered a maintenance of the status quo pending the case’s determination.

Meanwhile, acting council leaders have assumed executive functions in the affected councils, with some chairmen facing impeachment. Two of the suspended chairmen have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking on the matter, Governor Okpebholo acknowledged the role of the acting leaders in restoring order and emphasized their legal authority to drive development at the grassroots.

Implications for Governance and Constitution Amendment

The allegations and counterclaims highlight deeper issues within Nigeria’s political system, particularly the unchecked influence of governors over local government administrations. The arbitrary suspension of elected officials has sparked concerns about accountability and the misuse of executive power.

Observers have called for constitutional amendments to safeguard the autonomy of local governments and prevent governors from arbitrarily dismissing elected officials. They argue that such incidents undermine democratic processes and hinder grassroots development.

Governor Okpebholo’s stance underscores the need for transparency and accountability in local governance. However, political analysts warn that the ongoing dispute could further polarize Edo State’s political landscape if not resolved amicably.

This issue exemplifies the challenges of balancing power between state and local governments, highlighting the need for reforms that prioritize the rule of law and grassroots development.