From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
The chairman of Owan East Local Government Area, Hon. Prince Aminu Okodo-Kadiri, has said his impeachment, along with that of his deputy, Hon. Clement Ojebuovbo, was unconstitutional.
He stated this while addressing journalists in Benin City, referencing the Edo State Local Government Law of 2000 (as amended in 2002), which outlines specific procedures for the removal of council executives.
Okodo-Kadiri said that none of the stipulated processes—such as presenting allegations signed by two-thirds of councillors, setting up an investigative panel of independent individuals, and adhering to timelines—were followed during the proceedings.
The embattled council chairman argued that the legislative council failed to establish a seven-member investigative panel as mandated by law and that he was denied the opportunity to defend himself before such a panel.
Additionally, he pointed out that the mace used during the impeachment was not the official mace of the Owan East Local Government Council, further invalidating the process.
He also refuted allegations of financial mismanagement, particularly claims involving N50 million reportedly allocated to councils for salary payments.
“The governor alleged that council chairmen embezzled N50 million meant for salaries, but this claim lacks merit,” Okodo-Kadiri stated.
He explained that monthly salary expenditures far exceed N50 million in most councils and that salaries were paid promptly up to November, contrary to the governor’s claims. “If funds were misappropriated, where is the proof? Our bank records are clear, and no salaries are owed,” he added.
He further discredited the impeachment by revealing that two key councillors involved in the process—Hon. Haruna Mohammed and another member from Ward Seven—had been suspended for gross misconduct prior to the session.
He argued that their participation rendered the proceedings invalid and emphasised that his office was never notified of their reinstatement, as required by due process.
He vowed to seek justice through the judiciary, describing it as the “last hope of the common man.”
“This suspension and impeachment are baseless and unconstitutional.
“I will rely on the judiciary to restore justice and uphold the rule of law in this matter,” Okodo-Kadiri said.