A Benin High Court sitting in Benin City, today, 20th December, 2024 granted the application to restore the Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Councils in Edo State back to their positions.
The reinstating order made by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba, also directed the defendants, including the Edo State Government, the Governor and the Attorney General, among others, not to give effect to the House of Assembly resolution purportedly suspending the 18 council chairmen.
The Edo State High Court order then directed that the status quo ante bellum as at the 12th of December 2024 be maintained while it restrained the Defendants, their privies, servants, agent, whosoever named or described from in any way giving effect to, or acting on the resolution suspending the Claimants’ elected Chairman/Vice Chairmen purportedly made by the Edo State House of Assembly on the 16th December 2024 or any other day, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice in this suit.
Justice Efe Ikponmwonba thereafter adjourned the case to 17th January 2025 for continuation of trial.
Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the order as a victory for Edo people, democracy and the rule of law.
Edo state PDP chairman Dr. Tony Azegbemi who felicitated with the local council executives, urged the reinstated chairmen to resume work immediately and continue their work of advancing grassroots development and the delivery of impactful governance for the benefit of their communities.
He called on all stakeholders including all security agencies to respect the courts decision in the interest of peace and in compliance with the rule of law.
