By Kingston Magare
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said a governor does not have the powers to remove any local government chairman.
During the week the Edo State House of Assembly acting the script of governor Monday Okpebholo had voted to suspend the chairmen and vice chairmen of the 18 local governments based on allegations of insubordination and financial misconduct.
Speaking Thursday during the Ministry of Justice’s Citizens Engagement event, titled “Update on Justice Sector Reforms,,” Prince Fagbemi said:
“One thing I know, and can say without fear, is that under the present dispensation, no governor has the right to remove any local government chairman.
“That much I know. If I did not know before, since July 11, 2024, I have been aware that the removal of any local government chairman or official is the prerogative of that local government, through its legislative house.”
He added that the President Bola Tinubu administration is committed to the rule of law.
“As we continue on this reform journey, let me reaffirm our commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring equitable access to justice, and building a justice system that is fair, transparent, and responsive to the needs of all citizens.”
Before this submission the Edo LGA bosses had vowed to resist governor Okpebholo’s move, which former governor Godwin Obaseki described as an attempt by his successor to have access to the local government funds.
