Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has defended the suspension of 18 elected local government chairmen by the State House of Assembly, citing financial improprieties as the cause.
Speaking on Tuesday during a meeting with the acting local government chairmen at the Government House in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo explained that the suspended chairmen were unable to account for their monthly contribution of N800m to leaders of a particular political party.
The governor outlined the sequence of events leading to the suspension, emphasizing the necessity of accountability in governance. He stated that the decision was not taken lightly but was driven by the local government chairmen’s failure to provide explanations for the significant financial outflows.
This action, he added, aligns with the state government’s commitment to ensuring that public funds are used for developmental purposes rather than partisan interests.
Governor Okpebholo reassured the acting chairmen, who have stepped in following the suspension and impeachment of their predecessors, of his administration’s full support.
“I have full confidence in your ability to deliver services that will foster grassroots development and meet the expectations of our people,” Okpebholo said.
The governor also called on the acting chairmen to prioritize transparency, effective management, and development in their respective councils, urging them to distinguish their tenure with impactful initiatives that serve the people.
The suspension of the 18 local government chairmen has stirred debates about accountability in governance, but the Edo State government maintains that it was a necessary step toward ensuring prudent use of public resources.
With the acting chairmen now in charge, the focus shifts to delivering on developmental promises, particularly at the grassroots level. The administration’s emphasis on service delivery signals a renewed drive to uplift communities across Edo State.
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