The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has described as illegal and unconstitutional, the suspension of the Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Areas in Edo State.
Fagbemi said the removal from office or suspension of any elected LG official in the country is the prerogative of the legislative arm in the LGA.
He based his position on the July 11 judgement of the Supreme Court that granted autonomy to the 774 LGAs in the country.
“One thing that I know and can say without fear is that under the present dispensation, the governor has no right to remove any local government chairman”.
He said hat his initial reluctance to react to the development was because he wanted to know the basis upon which the LGA officials in Edo state were reportedly suspended.
NAN reports that the controversial suspension was attributed to alleged gross misconduct and insubordination by these chairmen and their voice.
The Edo State House of Assembly suspended the chairmen and vice chairmen of the LGAs for two months on the order of Gov. Monday Okpebholo via a letter from the governor, who leveled the accusation, alleging that they failed to submit their financial reports from September 23, 2022, to date, as directed.
Justice sector has made remarkable progress, says Fagbemi
Earlier, the Minister said that the Ministry of Justice has achieved milestone towards fostering transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in the administration of justice in Nigeria.
Fagbemi said this on Thursday in Abuja during a public session organised by the ministry to update citizens and the media on the strides recorded by the Ministry.
He said the engagement also serves as a mechanism to receive feedback from all stakeholders for future improvements.
The AGF reminded stakeholders that the day’s engagement offered a unique opportunity for open dialogue, which will enable all identify gaps, propose solutions, and prioritize actions for the next phase of justice sector reforms.
“The justice sector has made remarkable progress in recent years, driven by the dedication and hard work of the departments and units of the Ministry, partners, and stakeholders.
“The adoption of the 2024 National Policy on Justice, which was developed in collaboration with stakeholders to address the challenges militating against effective administration of justice in Nigeria has helped us a lot.
“We equally have the National Policy on Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution, 2024 and the Implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015 that have helped in the speedy dispensation of justice among others”.
He said the milestone achievements underscored the unwavering commitment of the ministry towards fostering transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in the administration of justice in Nigeria.
The Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs Modupe Ogundoro, commended the different departments for working together in delivering the impactful reforms recorded by the ministry to address the needs of Nigerians.
“As the ministry strives to improve the justice sector, we recognise the importance of citizen engagement and participation as contained in the ministerial deliverables.
“Your inputs are therefore crucial in shaping policies and reforms, ensuring they are responsive to the needs of the Nigerian citizens,” she said. (NAN)
