In a strongly worded statement issued today, the Edo State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned what it describes as the “extermination of constitutional democracy” under the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo. The statement, signed by the party’s Caretaker Committee Chairman, Dr Tony Aziegbemin, was made available to *Truth Live News* and was covered by our correspondent in Benin City.
The PDP accused the state government of lawlessness, blatant disregard for judicial orders, and subversion of democratic principles. At the centre of the controversy is the recent suspension of elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of all 18 Local Government Councils in Edo State, an action the party has described as illegal and unconstitutional.
The suspension carried out on December 17, 2024, was reportedly orchestrated by the Edo State House of Assembly on the directive of Governor Okpebholo. According to the PDP, this move was based on unsubstantiated claims of “gross misconduct and insubordination.” The party noted that no fair hearing was granted to the accused officials and further pointed out that the cited Section 10(1) of the Edo State Local Government Law, used to justify the action, had already been nullified by the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa.
“The Vice Chairmen, against whom no allegations were made, were also suspended, a move that is not supported by any legal provision,” the statement read. The PDP expressed outrage over the continued enforcement of the suspension despite multiple court orders affirming the illegality of such actions.
Justice Okungbowa referenced a July 2024 Supreme Court judgment, which categorically declared that no state government or its legislative arm can suspend or dissolve elected local government officials. In defiance of this judgment, the PDP alleged that the Edo State Government deployed thugs and non-state actors to enforce its directive, denying Chairmen and their deputies access to their offices.
Adding to the PDP’s allegations, the statement revealed that the Chief of Staff to the Governor, along with other state actors, has been actively coercing councillors to abandon their elected Chairmen and pledge loyalty to the Governor. It also accused the government of holding unauthorized meetings and attempting to illegally alter council account signatories while withdrawing funds without proper authorization.
The party further disclosed that Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court had issued a mandatory injunction barring the state government from interfering in local government operations until the substantive case is resolved. Despite this, the government has allegedly continued its actions in blatant disregard of the court’s order.
The PDP described the situation as a deliberate attempt to undermine democracy. It warned that the actions of Governor Okpebholo could lead to a breakdown of law and order in the state. “This is nothing short of an attempted coup against a constitutional tier of government,” the statement added.
The party has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Attorney General of the Federation, the judiciary, and security agencies to intervene urgently. It emphasized the need to restore order, protect democratic institutions, and prevent further erosion of the rule of law in Edo State.
The PDP concluded its statement by urging all stakeholders to act decisively to prevent what it called “a dangerous precedent” that could weaken Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
Our correspondent in Benin City will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as events unfold.