“Understanding The Suspension Of Local Government Chairmen And The Imperative For Accountability*
The recent suspension of the 18 Local Government Chairmen and their Vice-Chairmen by the Edo State House of Assembly has reignited critical discussions on governance, fiscal responsibility, and institutional oversight. This decisive action, coming under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration, signifies a renewed effort to ensure transparency, efficiency, and accountability in resource allocation and public administration.
The move also highlights the need to address governance gaps inherited from the previous Obaseki-led administration, where institutional checks and balances appeared weakened at the local government level.
In Nigeria’s constitutional framework, immunity as outlined in Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended)—is an exclusive privilege reserved for the President, Vice President, Governors, and their Deputies. This immunity shields these individuals from prosecution, arrest, or civil proceedings while in office.
However, Local Government Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen do not enjoy such privileges. As custodians of public funds and local economic development, they remain subject to oversight by the State Government and State Assembly. This oversight ensures accountability in governance, protects public resources, and fosters economic efficiency in service delivery.
A significant source of confusion in this discourse stems from the concept of fiscal autonomy. Fiscal autonomy allows Local Government Councils to receive statutory allocations directly from the Federation Account, enhancing their ability to drive grassroots development and public investment. By ensuring consistent cash flow, fiscal autonomy empowers local councils to stimulate economic activities, improve public infrastructure, and support social welfare programs.
However, fiscal autonomy does not equate to political independence or immunity from oversight. As stipulated in Section 7 of the Constitution, State Assemblies retain the power to oversee the performance and financial management of Local Government Councils. Allegations of financial mismanagement, inefficiency, or abuse of office can therefore trigger regulatory intervention, such as suspensions or investigations.
The decision by the Edo State House of Assembly to suspend the 18 Local Government Chairmen and their Vice-Chairmen for two months aligns with both legal provisions and principles of sound economic governance. The rationale can be categorized into three critical areas:
- Resource Allocation Efficiency : Ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively for socioeconomic development at the local level.
- Public Accountability: Addressing instances of financial impropriety or abuse of office that may impede economic progress.
- Performance Optimization: Creating a governance environment where local officials deliver measurable outcomes in areas like infrastructure development, public service provision, and poverty alleviation.
The suspension is a temporary corrective measure to allow for detailed investigations and due process. It reflects the principles of macroeconomic prudence, where government expenditures and resource management are closely monitored to achieve optimal outcomes for the citizens.
It is high time the opposition moved on from the post-election effect and embraced the ideas and vision of this administration to redefine Edo State and set it on a path for growth and development. The election has been won and lost, and now is the time to heal, unite, and work together for the common good of the people. Senator Monday Okpebholo’s leadership offers a renewed opportunity to build a stronger and more prosperous Edo State, where all stakeholders play a role in driving progress.
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration has positioned itself as a champion of transparency and governance reform, with the mantra “Edo is Rising” symbolizing a commitment to economic growth, institutional efficiency, and citizen-centered policies. This action highlights the administration’s determination to strengthen governance frameworks while addressing the fiscal indiscipline and oversight lapses that characterized the latter part of the Obaseki-led administration.
The suspension of Local Government Chairmen and their Vice-Chairmen in Edo State serves as a reminder that fiscal accountability and governance oversight are critical for sustainable development. While fiscal autonomy provides local councils with resources to stimulate economic growth, it does not shield public officials from scrutiny or regulatory intervention.
Under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s leadership, Edo State is charting a new course one defined by transparency, accountability, and economic efficiency. As “Edo is Rising,” the emphasis on strengthening institutions, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and restoring public trust will play a pivotal role in driving inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development across the state.
This action reaffirms the principle that public office is a fiduciary responsibility one that must be guided by transparency, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to economic and social progress. Now is the time for healing, partnership, and forward-thinking leadership to secure a better future for Edo State.
By: Oseghale Success Ehinomen, M.Sc. (Health Economics) Educationist, MTRCN and Data Analyst.
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