Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court 8, Abuja, has directed the Edo State Government, the House of Assembly, and all parties involved in the ongoing Local Government Councils crisis to maintain the status quo as of December 15, 2024.
The ruling, issued on Friday, seeks to preserve existing arrangements pending the determination of a motion on notice filed by the 18 Local Government Council Chairmen in the state.
The embattled council chairmen, who initiated the legal action, allege a concerted effort by the state government and legislature to unlawfully dissolve the councils and usurp their constitutional mandates. The chairmen argued that any such dissolution would undermine the principles of democratic governance and accountability at the grassroots level.
Justice Nwite’s order is aimed at ensuring that no unilateral actions are taken by any of the parties that could alter the current administrative and operational framework of the councils. “All parties are hereby directed to refrain from any act that could disrupt the status quo as of December 15, 2024, until this court resolves the substantive issues before it,” the judge declared.
The ruling has temporarily halted the alleged plans for restructuring or dissolving the councils, which the chairmen claim violate the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and the Edo State Local Government Law.
Reacting to the court’s decision, counsel to the council chairmen, Barrister Obiora Okeke, described the ruling as a victory for the rule of law and grassroots democracy. “This decision underscores the importance of adhering to legal and constitutional principles in addressing disputes,” he stated.
On the other hand, the Edo State Government and House of Assembly have yet to issue an official response to the ruling, but sources close to the legislative arm hinted at the possibility of appealing the interim order.