The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has set up an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the suspension of all 18 Local Government Chairmen and Vice Chairmen.
This comes just hours after the Edo State House of Assembly suspended the local government leaders over allegations of misappropriation of funds.
The Assembly’s decision followed a heated plenary session on Tuesday.
Lawmakers engaged in intense debates, with some members passionately defending the need for accountability at the local government level.
After deliberations, the House unanimously voted to suspend the officials for two months.
The heads of the legislative arms of the affected councils were directed to oversee operations during the suspension period.
The Assembly Speaker described the decision as necessary to restore transparency and discipline in local governance.
“The allegations of financial misconduct cannot be overlooked,” the Speaker said.
Governor Okpebholo responded swiftly by approving the constitution of the seven-member panel to probe the matter.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Umar Musa Ikhilor, the governor emphasized the need for due process and fairness.
“The panel will ensure that proper investigations are carried out to determine the truth behind the allegations,” the statement read.
The governor reassured Edo people that his administration remains committed to accountability and good governance.
He added that no stone would be left unturned in addressing the concerns raised by the House of Assembly.
The Administrative Panel will be chaired by Solomon Imohiosen, Esq., a well-known legal practitioner.
Other members of the panel include Adaze Andrew Emwanta, Esq., Hon. Patrick Idiake, Barr. Dorine Eduwui, Barr. Henry Unoakhe Itseuwa, and Kazeem Afegbua.
Osagie Asabor, Esq., was appointed as the Secretary of the Panel.
The announcement of the panel has generated mixed reactions among residents of Edo State.
Some commended the governor and lawmakers for taking decisive action to address corruption allegations.
“For the first time, we are seeing leadership that is ready to hold people accountable,” said a resident, Mrs. Osarumwense Igbinoba.
However, others believe the suspensions could disrupt local government operations and affect service delivery.
A local government worker, who preferred anonymity, expressed concern about the development.
“While the investigation is good, suspending all 18 chairmen and their deputies at once will definitely slow down governance,” the worker said.
Political observers are also weighing in on the matter, with some describing the move as a bold step towards sanitizing local governance.
A political analyst, Mr. Akhere Oseghale, said the decision reflects a growing demand for accountability in Nigerian politics.
“Mismanagement of public funds is a serious issue, and this action sends a strong message to other public office holders,” he said.
The Administrative Panel has been tasked with uncovering the truth behind the allegations within the stipulated suspension period.
Governor Okpebholo has urged the panel members to work diligently and submit their findings without bias.
“The people of Edo State deserve to know how their funds are being managed,” he said.