Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
Former Edo State Governor and current Senator representing Edo North, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, has openly condemned any attempt by governors to suspend or dissolve democratically elected local government councils. Speaking passionately on the floor of the National Assembly, Oshiomhole reaffirmed his stance on the sanctity of democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Truth Live News gathered that the senator and former NLC chairman recalled how, during his tenure as governor of Edo State, he resisted pressures to dissolve local councils controlled by opposition parties. Instead, he allowed their tenures to expire before organizing elections, a move he said was guided by his respect for democracy.
“If it is wrong, it is wrong. I have immunity on this floor, particularly when I’m saying the truth. The Supreme Court of the land, besides the express provisions of the Constitution, has repeatedly pronounced that governors do not have the power to dissolve elected councils or appropriate local government funds. When we ignore this, we inflict damage on the fabric of our democracy,” Oshiomhole stated.
He further emphasized that democratic principles transcend political affiliations, urging the Senate to persuade the Minister of Finance to withhold funds from councils without elected officials.
However, Oshiomhole’s remarks have spotlighted a similar scenario unfolding in Edo State under Governor Monday Okpebholo. The governor, who assumed office less than 100 days ago, was strongly canvassed and supported by Oshiomhole during his campaign. Yet, his administration has suspended council chairmen, replacing them with legislative speakers, reportedly using forceful and illegal means to achieve this. Reports also suggest that these officials have been subjected to intimidation, including being dragged before the EFCC under questionable circumstances.
Oshiomhole’s vocal stance on the national stage contrasts with his silence regarding the actions of Governor Okpebholo in Edo State. Critics have called on the senator to address the issue, stressing that “elders cannot sit idly by while the child’s head dangles dangerously in the market square.”
Governor Okpebholo has been urged to emulate Oshiomhole’s precedent of tolerance and respect for democratic institutions during his time as governor. The unfolding drama raises the question of whether Oshiomhole’s advocacy for democracy at the national level will translate into action within Edo State.
As tensions rise, stakeholders and citizens alike are calling for leadership that aligns with the principles of justice and democracy.