President Tinubu Warns Governor Okpebholo on Local Government Interference

DDM News

The autonomy of local governments has once again come under scrutiny as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, through the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, issued a stern warning to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State over the suspension of local government chairmen in the state.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) obtained this information during a press briefing where Fagbemi emphasized the federal government’s stance on the matter.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday, the AGF declared that state governors lack the constitutional authority to suspend or remove elected local government officials from office.

His remarks were in response to recent actions by the Edo State governor, which have drawn criticism from legal and political analysts alike.

According to Fagbemi, the Nigerian Constitution explicitly guarantees the autonomy of local governments, making any interference by governors unconstitutional and a threat to the principles of democracy.

“The autonomy of local governments is enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution,” Fagbemi asserted.

“Governors do not have the right to suspend or remove duly elected local government chairmen.

“Such actions are a violation of democratic principles and the rule of law.”

The AGF’s statement is rooted in the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

Chapter 1, Section 7(1) of the Constitution clearly states:

“The system of local government by democratically elected local government councils is under this Constitution guaranteed;

“And accordingly, the Government of every State shall ensure their existence under a Law which provides for the establishment, structure, composition, finance, and functions of such councils.”

This provision underscores the independence of local governments as a critical tier of governance.

Any action by a state governor that undermines this autonomy breaches the constitutional mandate and erodes the democratic fabric of the nation.

Furthermore, the Supreme Court has consistently reinforced the sanctity of local government autonomy.

In landmark cases such as Governor of Ekiti State v. Olubunmo (2020), the court ruled that state governors cannot unilaterally dissolve or suspend elected local government councils without due process.

Such actions not only violate constitutional provisions but also undermine the electorate’s will, thereby weakening the foundations of representative democracy.

The actions of Governor Okpebholo, as highlighted by the AGF, have significant ramifications for Nigeria’s democratic system.

Local governments serve as the closest form of governance to the people, playing a vital role in delivering essential services and fostering grassroots development.

Interfering with their autonomy disrupts this process and alienates citizens from decision-making mechanisms.

When governors suspend or remove elected officials without legal justification, it creates a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law.

It signals to the public that constitutional provisions can be disregarded for political expediency, thereby eroding trust in democratic institutions.

This disregard for local government autonomy also concentrates power in the hands of state executives, which contradicts the principles of federalism and decentralization enshrined in the Constitution.

Moreover, such actions discourage political participation at the grassroots level.

If local officials can be arbitrarily removed, it dissuades competent individuals from seeking elected positions, ultimately stalling democratic progress.

It also perpetuates a culture of impunity, where state governors act without accountability, further weakening governance structures.

President Tinubu’s administration has reiterated its commitment to protecting democratic institutions at all levels of government.

The AGF’s warning serves as a reminder to state governors of their constitutional limitations.

It also highlights the federal government’s resolve to enforce the rule of law and safeguard local government autonomy.

By taking a firm stance, the federal government seeks to restore confidence in the democratic process and ensure that elected local officials can perform their duties without undue interference.

This move aligns with the administration’s broader agenda of promoting good governance and fostering national unity.

The warning to Governor Okpebholo underscores the importance of respecting constitutional provisions and upholding democratic principles.

Local government autonomy is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s federal system, and any attempt to undermine it poses a threat to the nation’s democratic future.

As the federal government continues to monitor developments in Edo State, it is imperative for all stakeholders to prioritize the rule of law and the will of the people.

Only by respecting constitutional boundaries can Nigeria build a resilient and inclusive democracy.

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