The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has decried the absence of a properly constituted local government administration in the state, calling on the Federal Government to suspend all allocations to the state government through the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), in line with a Supreme Court ruling.
The party accused the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration of mismanaging funds meant for local councils, alleging that revenue collected is neither accounted for nor used appropriately. Describing the situation as “executive rascality” and an abuse of power, the PDP urged the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) to reinstate the suspended local government chairmen to restore governance at the grassroots.
Speaking at a press briefing in Benin, the Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, condemned what he described as a constitutional crisis caused by the state government. He warned that the situation is pushing Edo towards instability and anarchy.
Aziegbemi further called on the Attorney General to enforce the Supreme Court ruling by halting allocations to the state. He alleged that since the suspension of elected local government chairmen, over ₦30 billion meant for councils has been diverted and shared among ruling party members.
“There is no approved budget in any local council, yet funds are being spent illegally. Due process is not followed in contract awards, transformer purchases, and event organization. Additionally, the state government has stopped salaries for elected local government officials, while selectively paying only loyal councillors,” Aziegbemi stated.
In response, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, Fred Itua, dismissed the allegations, insisting that the governor remains committed to ensuring the security and welfare of Edo residents. He described the PDP’s claims as politically motivated and aimed at inciting unrest in the state.
