The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has called on Governor Monday Okpebholo and his administration to comply with recent court judgments reinstating elected Local Government Chairmen and their deputies, accusing the state government of “brazen illegality” and “disregard for the rule of law.”
Speaking during a press briefing on Wednesday, the Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, said the party was compelled to update the public on what he described as “a disturbing assault on grassroots governance.”
“When Senator Monday Okpebholo began this unprecedented onslaught against duly elected Local Government executives, we immediately raised the alarm,” Aziegbemi said. “Unfortunately, they persisted in their unconstitutional actions, undermining the structure of democracy and the principle of separation of powers.”
Aziegbemi commended the judiciary for delivering what he termed “landmark rulings” in favour of the embattled local officials. He cited the case of Hon. Tajudeen Alade, Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government, who was reinstated by Justice B.A. Okoh. The judge also directed the Inspector General of Police to provide security for Alade’s immediate resumption of office.
“The Court found that there was non-compliance with Section 19 of the Edo State Local Government Law and that Alade was denied fair hearing,” Aziegbemi stated. “The removal was therefore nullified, and his reinstatement was ordered.”
The PDP Chairman also referenced another recent judgment involving the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Etsako West Local Government, Hon. Zibiri Marvelous and Hon. Benji Ojietu. Justice O.M. Obayuwana ruled that their impeachment was null and void, citing procedural irregularities and ordering their immediate return to office with full entitlements.
“The court didn’t just stop at reinstating them; it also imposed a cost of one million naira each on the councillors who participated in the illegal impeachment,” Aziegbemi noted. “This is a clear indictment of the lawless actions of the Okpebholo administration.”
The PDP further warned that similar court victories would soon be secured in other affected councils and advised the state government to retreat from what it described as a path of “blatant illegality.”
“The failure of local government administration has worsened insecurity and poverty in Edo State,” Aziegbemi said. “It is time to restore governance at the grassroots, where it matters most.”
He also challenged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to provide proof of its earlier claim that 17 PDP local government chairmen had defected to their party.
“Till now, they have not named a single one,” Aziegbemi said. “This just shows the level of desperation and political deceit within the APC. But Edo people are politically aware and won’t be fooled.”
In a special commendation, the PDP praised Hon. Maria Edeko, who recently resigned as Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, describing her as “a beacon of integrity in an era where principle is scarce.”
“Maria Edeko has distinguished herself with honor,” Aziegbemi declared. “She will be remembered as one who chose integrity over self-interest, and for that, the PDP and Edo people are proud.”
Concluding, Aziegbemi reaffirmed the PDP’s determination to pursue all legal avenues to reclaim its mandate following the disputed September 2024 governorship election.
“We remain united and undeterred,” he said. “Nothing will stop us from reclaiming what was brazenly stolen from the people of Edo State.”