From.Desmond Mgboh, Kano
The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has condemned the suspension of 18 local government chairmen by the Edo State House of Assembly
A statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the Association. Hamisu M. Anani on Saturday explained that the decision to condemn the action was taken at an emergency meeting convened by the National Executive Council of the Association.
“The National Executive Council, the BOT have jointly condemned the decision which was made after Governor Monday Okpebholo accused the chairmen of disobeying his instructions by refusing to submit their financial records to the state government” he stated.
“ALGON views this suspension as a setback for democracy and an abuse of power, particularly since the chairmen were not given a chance to defend themselves. The Association argued that the suspension is invalid, as it contradicts the Supreme Court’s judgment granting local governments autonomy” he added
“ALGON hereby urges the Governor and the State Assembly to reverse its decision and respect the rule of law to strengthen democratic governance” the statement held
ALGON appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and halt this abuse of power, emphasizing the need to respect the autonomy and independence of local governments as guaranteed by the Constitution.