BENIN CITY – Tension ran high at the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) on Monday as hundreds of protesters, under the banner of Concerned Edo Youth, stormed the premises demanding answers regarding the prolonged suspension of 18 local government chairmen and their deputies.
The chairmen were initially suspended on December 17, 2024, following a request from Governor Monday Okpebholo, citing their failure to present financial statements dating back to September 2024.
Their two-month suspension has since expired, yet they remain barred from office—a situation that has sparked growing unrest.
Protesters Demand Accountability
Speaking on behalf of the group, Comrade Joseph Gbale condemned the indefinite suspension, stating that it has led to “illegality, panic, and violence” across the affected councils.
“It is regrettable that both the Edo State Government and the House of Assembly have not mustered the courage to accept the truth and uphold the rule of law,” Gbale said.
“Instead, they continue to perpetrate illegality, causing tension in our communities.”
The protesters issued a seven-day ultimatum for the Assembly to release the findings of its investigative committee.
They also demanded to know whether the suspended officials were given a fair hearing before disciplinary action was taken.
Government’s Response
In response, Hon. Yekini Idaiye, representing Akoko-Edo I, assured the protesters that the Assembly would deliberate on their concerns and provide feedback.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Lucky Eseigbe, revealed that beyond the ongoing court cases, many of the suspended chairmen had absconded and refused to respond to security agency invitations over allegations of misappropriating over ₦90 billion.
He emphasized that any chairman cleared of wrongdoing would be reinstated.
What’s Next?
As tensions rise, the fate of the suspended chairmen remains uncertain. With mounting pressure from civil groups and legal battles underway, all eyes are on the Edo State government to address the growing concerns over governance and due process.
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