Edo PDP Raises Alarm Over Alleged Kidnapping of Councillors Amid LG Chairmen Suspension

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced concerns regarding the alleged kidnapping of several councillors in the region.

Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo State PDP Caretaker Committee, disclosed this at a press conference held in Benin City.

According to Aziegbemi, around five councillors from Orhionmwon and Akoko-Edo local governments were reportedly abducted by individuals believed to be agents of the state government.

He claimed that the councillors from Ward 1 and Ward 2 in Orhionmwon were taken on Monday, along with three others from Akoko-Edo, due to their refusal to endorse an impeachment notice against their respective council chairmen.

The caretaker committee chairman accused Governor Monday Okpebholo of instigating unlawful gatherings across local councils with the intent to unseat the duly elected chairmen of the state’s 18 local government areas.

He alleged that these meetings involved leaders from the local councils’ legislative arms, who have been designated as acting chairmen, alongside their loyal councillors and local administrative heads.

Aziegbemi described the recent suspension of the elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of these local councils—executed on December 17, 2024, under the pretense of “gross misconduct and insubordination”—as illegal and unjust.

He cited a judgment by the Chief Judge of Edo State, which deemed any such suspensions by the state government or legislature as unlawful.

He further highlighted the government’s disregard for an advisory from President Bola Tinubu through the Attorney General, emphasizing that council leaders cannot be removed without due process.

Aziegbemi expressed concern over the government’s use of thugs to enforce these illegal actions and described the ongoing situation as a potential threat to constitutional democracy in Edo State.