Benin City — Local government leaders in Edo State have resolved to take a firm stand against alleged state government interference with council funds. In an emergency meeting convened at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) secretariat in Benin City on December 23, 2024, council chairmen and legislative leaders from all local government areas unanimously adopted measures to protect local government autonomy and the interests of their constituents.
The meeting, chaired by PDP State Chairman Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, highlighted concerns over alleged illegal actions by the APC-led state government, including manipulation and intimidation of council leaders. The leaders condemned these actions as a threat to local governance and pledged to take decisive steps to address them.
Key Resolutions:
1. Commitment to Local Governance: Council chairmen vowed to remain in their offices, upholding their duties to the constituents who elected them.
2. Resistance Against Manipulation: Legislative leaders were cautioned to reject alleged deceptive offers and remain steadfast in their responsibilities. Leaders cited judicial and federal government condemnation of the state government’s actions as evidence of misconduct.
3. Legal Action Against Tampering: Local governments resolved to pursue legal action against any individuals, including Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGAs) and Treasurers, who manipulate council resources without authorization.
4. Implementation of Court Judgments: The PDP and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) pledged to demand the immediate enforcement of court rulings on council suspensions, holding the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) accountable for its role in the matter.
Condemnation of State Government Tactics
The PDP described the alleged intimidation, blackmail, and manipulation by the state government as deliberate attempts to undermine local governance and misappropriate council funds.
“The APC-led government has continued to deflect responsibility and exert undue pressure on council leaders to endorse illegal actions,” stated Chris Osa Nehikhare, Publicity Secretary of the PDP Caretaker Committee in Edo State.
United Front
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the interests of their constituents and defending the autonomy of local governments. They pledged to uphold the rule of law and pursue legal remedies to address the issues at hand.
As the situation unfolds, the spotlight remains on the state government and the EDHA to respond to these allegations and court judgments.
