By Abiola Olawale
A High Court in Benin, Edo State, on Friday issued a ruling restoring the suspended local government (LG) chairmen and their deputies to their positions.
The ruling came after the affected LG Chairmen took a legal option challenging their suspension by the Edo State House of Assembly over allegations of gross misconduct and insubordination.
The presiding judge, Justice Efe Ikponwonba, granted the order against the Edo State Government, Edo State Governor, and four others who were listed as 1st-6th defendants, respectively, in the suit filed by 18 local government councils and ALGON in Edo State.
Justice Ikponmwonba also ordered that the status quo, as of December 12, be maintained pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice filed on December 12, 2024.
He ruled: “The Court orders a mandatory injunction compelling the defendant by themselves, their privies, servants, agents, howsoever named or described, to restore the chairmen and vice chairmen of the of their respective Local government councils.”
Justice Ikponwonba further adjourned the. Assembly until February 17, 2024.
