Tensions have escalated in Edo State following the impeachment of multiple Local Government Area (LGA) chairpersons and their deputies over allegations of misappropriation of funds and dereliction of duty.
The crisis began after the Edo State House of Assembly suspended all LGA chairpersons and deputies for two months, acting on a petition from Governor Monday Okpebholo.
On Wednesday, violence erupted at the Uhunmwonde LGA Secretariat during the impeachment of Kenneth Adodo, the council chairman. Several individuals were reportedly injured, and council property was destroyed in the chaos.
The same day, councillors also impeached Aminu Okodo-Kadiri, chairman of Owan East, and Clement Ojebuovbo, his deputy, on similar charges.
By Thursday, the unrest spread to Orhionmwon LGA, where councillors impeached Daniel Osariemen, the House Leader of the legislative arm, accusing him of mobilizing unknown individuals to seize control of the council leadership.
Earlier on December 27, 2024, Eghe Ogbemudia, chairperson of Egor LGA, and her deputy, Frank Osawe, were also impeached.
The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, has since criticized the suspension of the council chairpersons, adding another layer of complexity to the political crisis.
Reports indicate that more LGA chairpersons are under threat of impeachment, further deepening the leadership crisis in Edo State.
