By Rauf Timidi
In defiance of the federal government’s position on financial autonomy for local government councils and a recent judgement from the Edo State High Court reinstating the allegedly illegal suspension of local government chairmen and their deputies, Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo appears resolute in his bid to subvert the autonomy of local councils.
This growing crisis has caused widespread tension, with many accusing the governor of orchestrating a targeted campaign to remove opposition-aligned Council Chairmen and tighten his grip on local government finances.
Sources claim that the campaign, dubbed “Operation Wipe-Out,” specifically targets all the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)-led eighteen local Councils, creating a volatile atmosphere across the State.
The crisis reached a boiling point on last Thursday when reports emerged of armed men allegedly invading the Uhunmwode Local Government Council headquarters in Egor. Several individuals were reportedly injured in the ensuing violence. The Council Chairman, Kenneth Adodo, accused the State governor of deploying police officers from the Edo State Government House to orchestrate the attack. Adodo further alleged that the governor’s ultimate aim is to unseat local government Chairmen by any means necessary, granting him unfettered access to Council funds.
This assertion gains credence in light of recent developments. Chairmen of Uhunmwode and Orhionmwon local government councils have been impeached by their councilors under controversial circumstances. Many observers believe these impeachments were stage-managed, designed to serve the governor’s political interests rather than adhere to democratic norms.
Amidst the turmoil, a socio-political group, Advocate for Good Governance and Stability, diaspora alleged that the control of Edo’s local governments has been handed over to Philip Shaibu, the immediate past Deputy Governor of the State. The group in a statement signed by its Chairman, Rasak Abdul-Azeez claims that Shaibu, emboldened by his influence over the current governor, is effectively running Local Government affairs behind the scene as part of a purported “third term” agenda. These allegations, while unverified, have further fuelled tensions, with detractors accusing Shaibu of masterminding a vendetta against the Chairmen.
Dennis Idahosa, a key political figure in the State, is also reportedly side-lined in these power struggles. Insiders suggest that Shaibu is leveraging his alliance with Senator Adams Oshiomhole and key political actors, including Gani Audu, Governor Okpebholo’s Chief of Staff, Barr. Damian Lawani, and the acting Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Jarrett Tenebe. Together, this coalition is allegedly executing a coordinated campaign to dismantle opposition-led councils and consolidate their hold on the State’s political machinery, thereby making the Etsakos to completely take charge of the Local Government councils leaving behind the present Deputy Governor, whose responsibility would have been to handle the affairs the Local Government Councils in Edo State as part of his schedules.
These developments come in stark contradiction to the principles of financial autonomy for local governments enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution. The federal government’s advocacy for local council independence aims to promote grassroots development and democratic accountability. However, in Edo State, these ideals appear to be under siege.
The Edo State High Court’s recent ruling, which reinstated suspended council Chairmen and deputies, underscores the illegality of the governor’s actions. Yet, Governor Okpebholo seems determined to flout judicial authority, raising questions about the rule of law and the integrity of governance in the State. Legal experts warn that this disregard for court rulings sets a dangerous precedent, eroding public trust in the judicial system and democratic institutions.
Beyond the legal and political implications, the on-going crisis has exacted a significant human toll. The reported use of thugs and violence to achieve political ends has left communities in turmoil, with many fearing for their safety. The invasion of Uhunmwode Local Government Council headquarters is just one example of how the struggle for control is destabilising local governance and putting lives at risk.
These power plays also have a broader impact on development. Local councils, intended to be the closest tier of government to the people, are being crippled by political interference. Projects meant to benefit communities are stalling, while public resources are diverted to fund political battles. The result is a governance vacuum that leaves ordinary citizens bearing the brunt of elite power struggles.
As the crisis deepens, calls for accountability are growing louder. Civil society organisations, political observers, and concerned citizens are urging Governor Okpebholo to respect the autonomy of local councils and adhere to judicial rulings. They argue that genuine development can only occur when local governments are empowered to function independently, free from undue interference.
Moreover, there is a pressing need for institutional reforms to prevent future abuses of power. Strengthening the legal framework governing local councils and ensuring robust mechanisms for oversight could help safeguard their autonomy. At the same time, addressing the root causes of political violence and fostering a culture of democratic accountability are essential steps towards sustainable governance.
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
