NBA Benin Condemns Suspension of Edo Local Government Chairmen, Cites Violation of Rule of Law
The Benin Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the recent suspension of local government chairmen and their vice chairmen by the Edo State House of Assembly, calling it a violation of the rule of law.
In a statement issued by the chairman of the NBA Benin Branch, Idemudia Osifo, the association expressed its profound sorrow and indignation over the suspension, which occurred on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. The NBA Benin argued that the action undermines the principles of democratic governance and the rule of law, particularly in light of an existing Supreme Court ruling.
The statement highlighted the Supreme Court decision in AG of the Federation v. AG of Abia State & Ors (2024) LPELR-62576 (SC), which reaffirmed the autonomy of local governments and emphasized the need for all parties to act within the confines of the law. According to the NBA Benin, the suspension of the local government officials was unjustified, as it was based on claims of misconduct without due process.
The association also called on the Attorney General of the state and other relevant authorities to provide appropriate legal guidance to ensure that actions taken are in line with the law. The NBA Benin stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law above all else in the country’s governance system.
