KWALE, NIGERIA — The Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State, Hon. Chiamaka Ajede, has dismissed claims that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori ordered the arrest or removal of a councillor in the local government, describing the allegations as false and mischievous.
Ajede made the clarification on Monday during a press briefing at the council secretariat in Kwale, where she addressed the controversy surrounding the councillor’s suspension. She said the decision to suspend the councillor was taken by the legislative arm of the council in accordance with the law, and that the governor had no hand in the matter.
“The governor did not order the removal or arrest of any councillor. The allegation is false and is being peddled by those who want to create confusion and discredit the government. The suspension of the councillor was a decision of the legislative arm of the council, and it followed due process,” Ajede stated.
She explained that the councillor, whose name she did not disclose, was suspended following allegations of misconduct and breach of the council’s rules and regulations. She said the suspension was recommended by the council’s ethics committee after an investigation, and that the councillor was given the opportunity to defend herself before the decision was taken.
“The suspension is not a removal. It is a temporary measure pending the conclusion of the investigation. The councillor will be given a fair hearing, and the matter will be resolved in accordance with the law,” Ajede said.
The council boss also dismissed claims that the governor was interfering in the affairs of the local government, noting that Governor Oborevwori had consistently respected the autonomy of local governments and had not interfered in their internal matters. She said the governor’s administration had been supportive of local governments, providing them with resources and guidance to deliver on their mandates.
“The governor is a democrat who respects the rule of law and the independence of local governments. He has never interfered in the affairs of this council, and he will not start now. Those who are spreading false rumours are doing so for their own selfish interests,” she said.
Ajede urged residents of Ukwuani to ignore the rumours and to continue to support the council’s efforts to deliver development to the area. She assured them that the council was committed to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, and that all decisions would be taken in the best interests of the people.
The councillor’s suspension has sparked controversy in the local government, with some stakeholders alleging that the governor was behind the move. However, Ajede’s clarification has doused tensions, with many residents expressing confidence in the council’s leadership.
The Delta State Government has not issued an official statement on the matter, but sources within the government indicated that the governor had no involvement in the councillor’s suspension. The government is said to be focused on its development agenda and has urged all stakeholders to avoid actions that could undermine peace and stability in the state.
As the controversy subsides, the council is expected to conclude its investigation into the councillor’s conduct and to take a final decision on the matter. For now, Ajede’s clarification has restored calm in Ukwuani, and the council is focused on delivering on its mandate to the people.
