Edo LG Chairmen Defy Tension As Thugs Fail To Stop Resumption Of Duties

Following an Edo State High Court ruling, the local government chairmen in the state resumed their duties on Tuesday, despite efforts by suspected thugs in some councils to hinder their return.

The chairmen, who had been suspended by the Edo State House of Assembly over alleged insubordination and misconduct, were reinstated by the court order. However, tensions remain high, with reports of resistance at several council offices.

One chairman emphasized, “I continue to urge the governor of Edo State to remember that he is the father of the state. Politics is over; we must respect the three tiers of government. No tier can succeed alone—we must work together. Political games must end because what our people need is development.”

“Despite limited funds, we’ve managed to use our resources effectively to deliver good governance to Akoko-Edo. Autonomy will empower our people, creating opportunities for economic growth. Local governments can build better roads, establish modern health centers, support agriculture, and make farming easier for our farmers.”

In Orhionmwon, the Press Secretary to the chairman, Roy Osariemien, reported that the situation was calm, with councilors aligned with the chairman, Newman Ugiagbe.

In Etsako East, however, Chairman Princess Benedicta Atoh did not attend the office for the second day due to the hostile environment created by suspected thugs at the Agenebode secretariat. Press Secretary Ben Atu informed Vanguard that “Thugs barricaded the secretariat entrance on Monday, but the workers’ union, Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), protected the chairman’s office from damage. The chairman prioritizes peace and will respect the rule of law.”