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Court orders reinstatement of Edo LG chairmen, deputies

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The Edo State High Court has mandated the immediate reinstatement of suspended local government chairpersons and their deputies on Friday.

As reported, Justice Efe Ikponmwonba, the presiding judge, issued an injunction that restricts Governor Monday Okpebholo and the state Attorney-General from enforcing the suspension resolution enacted by the Edo State House of Assembly.

The local government officials previously filed a lawsuit contesting their suspension, which had garnered significant attention.

Justice Ikponmwonba ruled that all parties must maintain the situation as it was on December 12 until the court hears the pending motion on notice.

The court has set the hearing date for February 17, 2025, and ordered that all relevant parties receive notice of this proceeding.

According to previous reports, the suspension originated from a resolution passed by the Edo State House of Assembly on Tuesday.

The House acted based on allegations of gross misconduct against the chairpersons and their deputies.

Speaker Blessing Agbebaku disclosed that the governor had sent a petition to the Assembly, claiming that the local government officials failed to submit their financial records to the state government, which set off the process leading to their suspension.

In a response to the suspension, the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, affirmed that state assemblies lack the constitutional authority to suspend or remove local government chairpersons.

He clarified that the legislative body at the local level holds the exclusive power to carry out such actions, emphasizing the importance of adhering to due process in these matters

Earlier on December 17, the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), reported that Edo Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, announced the immediate dissolution of the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), and some other commissions within the public service.

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The news was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor.

The statement reads, “The general public is hereby informed that His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the dissolution of all Commissions in the Edo State Government Public Service, effective immediately.

“In line with the dissolution, chairmen and members of the commissions are instructed to hand over all government properties in their possession to the most senior public officer in their commission.

About Edo

Edo State, located in Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone, boasts a rich history and diverse culture.

As of 2024, it ranks as the 22nd most populous state, with approximately 5.25 million residents.

The state covers a landmass that places it as the 22nd largest in Nigeria. Benin City, the capital, serves as the largest city and the fourth largest in the country.

The city stands as a vital hub for Nigeria’s rubber industry. Established in 1991 from the former Bendel State, Edo State is often referred to as the “heartbeat of the nation.”

Edo State shares borders with several other states.

To the north, it meets Kogi State across a stretch of 133 kilometers.

The Niger River separates it from Anambra State to the northeast, while Delta State lies to the southeast and south, covering about 350 kilometers.

Ondo State borders Edo to the west, creating a diverse geographical landscape.

History of Edo

The history of Edo State traces back to the Mid-Western Region, which existed from 1963 to 1991.

The region emerged from Benin and Delta provinces of the Western Region, with Benin City as its capital.

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In 1976, it became known as Bendel State.

By 1967, when Nigeria underwent a restructuring of states, Bendel State retained its territory, solidifying its status.

During the Nigerian Civil War, Biafran forces invaded the Mid-Western region, aiming for a swift resolution to the conflict.

They briefly declared the area the “Republic of Benin.” However, this republic collapsed quickly as Nigerian troops regained control of Benin.

Historically, Edo State encompasses regions that were once part of the Benin Empire, a powerful kingdom that thrived during the 11th century.

The ancient city of Edo, now Benin City, featured impressive earthworks that still draw attention today.

In 1897, British forces launched a punitive expedition, leading to significant destruction of the city and its incorporation into the Southern Nigeria Protectorate.

Edo State’s population primarily consists of the Edoid people, including groups such as the Edo (or Bini), Esan, Ora, Akoko-Edo, Owan, and Afemai.

The Edo language, predominantly spoken in Benin City, serves as a unifying communication medium among these ethnic groups.

Christianity, introduced by Portuguese missionaries in the 15th century, remains the dominant religion.

Islam and traditional beliefs also hold significance in the region.

Political Structure of Edo

The political structure of the Edo people reflects a unique organization based on age groups.

The system transcends kinship ties, emphasizing age as a criterion for authority.

Benin City mirrors this structure, organizing itself into age grades, wards, and various chiefs who serve the Oba, the traditional ruler.

The Oba embodies the divine kingship that is central to the Benin political system.

Geography

Edo State experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, characterized by an average annual temperature of 28.78 °C (83.8 °F).

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The state receives around 183.49 millimeters (7.22 inches) of rainfall annually, with approximately 266 rainy days each year.

Its elevation reaches about 239.16 meters (784.65 feet) above sea level.

With Benin City as its capital, Edo State’s population reflects significant diversity.

The four major ethnic groups—Edo (Binis), Owan, Esan, and Afemai—coexist alongside a multitude of residents from across Nigeria and beyond.

Benin City has historically attracted Europeans during their explorations, leaving behind a legacy that contributes to the state’s appeal as a tourist destination.

The people of Edo State take pride in their rich culinary traditions, showcasing various traditional foods that reflect their vibrant culture. 


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