An Edo State High Court in Benin has ordered the reinstatement of the 18 suspended local government chairmen and their deputies across the state. The ruling was delivered on Friday by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba, who presided over the case brought by the affected officials.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
Justice Ikponmwonba issued a mandatory injunction directing the reinstatement of the officials and restraining Governor Monday Okpebholo, the Edo State Government, the Attorney General of the State, the Commissioner for Justice, and the Accountant General from acting on the suspension resolution passed by the state House of Assembly. The court also instructed that the status quo as of December 12, 2024, be maintained pending the hearing and determination of a motion on notice filed on the same date.
“The court orders a mandatory injunction compelling the defendant by themselves, their privies, servants, agents, howsoever named or described, to restore the chairmen and vice chairmen of their respective local government councils,” Justice Ikponmwonba ruled.
The judge further adjourned the matter to February 17, 2025, for a full hearing and directed that hearing notices be issued to the defendant The legal tussle began after the state House of Assembly passed a resolution suspending the local government officials, prompting the chairmen and their deputies to challenge the decision in court. Their argument centered on what they claimed to be an arbitrary and politically motivated action against them, undermining the principles of fair representation and due process.
Justice Ikponmwonba’s ruling has been widely regarded as a critical affirmation of the judiciary’s role in maintaining checks and balances within the state’s governance structure. It underscores the importance of adhering to constitutional provisions and ensuring that administrative actions are not taken arbitrarily.
According to the information obtained by dailytrust, The reinstatement order has elicited mixed reactions. Supporters of the affected officials have hailed the ruling as a victory for democracy and the rule of law, while critics have argued that the chairmen and their deputies failed in their duties and should not have been reinstated.
The matter remains a significant point of contention in Edo State politics, and all eyes are now on the February hearing, where the case will be reviewed in greater depth.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
