From Moshood Karim
The Chairman of Owan East Local Government Area, Hon. Prince Aminu Okodo-Kadiri, has rejected his recent impeachment and that of his deputy, Hon. Clement Ojebuovbo, as unconstitutional and illegal.
The impeachment was initiated by councillors citing alleged misconduct but, according to Okodo, was fraught with irregularities that violated the provisions of the law.
Addressing journalists in Benin City on Wednesday, Okodo referenced the Edo State Local Government Law of 2000 (as amended in 2002), which outlines specific procedures for the removal of council executives. He asserted that none of the stipulated processes—such as presenting allegations signed by two-thirds of councillors, setting up an investigative panel of independent individuals, and adhering to timelines—were followed during the proceedings.
The impeachment, led by the legislative council during a plenary session presided over by Hon. Haruna Mohammed, saw councillors across wards rallying to oust the chairman and his deputy. Hon. Friday Henry Oisawemi of Ward Seven moved the motion, accusing the leaders of violating council regulations and engaging in actions detrimental to the council’s interests. The motion, seconded by Hon. Marcus Sunday of Ward One, gained the support of eight councillors, securing a majority vote for removal.
However, Okodo highlighted significant breaches of the law. He argued that the legislative council failed to establish a seven-member investigative panel as mandated by the law and that he was denied the opportunity to defend himself before such a panel. Additionally, he pointed out that the mace used during the impeachment was not the official mace of the Owan East Local Government Council, further invalidating the process.
Okodo accused Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo of orchestrating the impeachment. He claimed councillors were summoned to the Government House and offered ₦25 million each to sign documents supporting the removal of council chairmen across the state. He also refuted allegations of financial mismanagement, particularly claims involving ₦50 million reportedly allocated to councils for salary payments.
“The governor alleged that council chairmen embezzled ₦50 million meant for salaries, but this claim lacks merit,” Okodo stated. He explained that monthly salary expenditures far exceed ₦50 million in most councils and that salaries were paid promptly up to November, contrary to the governor’s claims. “If funds were misappropriated, where is the proof? Our bank records are clear, and no salaries are owed,” he added.
Okodo further discredited the impeachment by revealing that two key councillors involved in the process—Hon. Haruna Mohammed and another member from Ward Seven—had been suspended for gross misconduct prior to the session. He argued that their participation rendered the proceedings invalid and emphasised that his office was never notified of their reinstatement, as required by due process.
Determined to challenge his removal, Okodo vowed to seek justice through the judiciary, describing it as the “last hope of the common man.” He expressed confidence in the courts to overturn what he termed an illegal and politically motivated impeachment.
“This suspension and impeachment are baseless and unconstitutional,” Okodo said. “I will rely on the judiciary to restore justice and uphold the rule of law in this matter.”
The unfolding political drama has drawn attention to the governance of local councils in Edo State, with many awaiting further developments in what promises to be a significant legal and political battle.
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