A Federal High Court in Abuja has directed Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, the State House of Assembly, and other parties in a suit filed by 18 suspended local council chairmen to maintain the status quo.

The ruling, delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite, follows a motion ex-parte presented by the plaintiffs’ counsel, Anderson Asemota. Asemota argued that the suspension of the chairmen violated constitutional provisions, citing a July 2024 Supreme Court decision affirming that governors lack the authority to suspend elected council officials.

Asemota explained that the chairmen were suspended after opposing the governor’s directive to operate a joint account, a move contrary to the Supreme Court’s ruling. He urged the court to issue an order preserving the status quo as of December 15, 2024, to prevent further actions based on the Assembly’s resolution.

The suspension was reportedly enacted on December 17, 2024. Supporting documents included the Supreme Court judgment, an Edo State High Court order restraining the defendants, and comments by the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, opposing the suspension.

Justice Nwite, exercising caution, granted an interim order to maintain the status quo pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

The suspension has drawn criticism from rights groups in Edo State. The Concerned Civil Society Organisations described the Assembly’s actions as unprecedented in democratic governance.

Speaking to reporters, the group’s spokesman, Ogbidi Emmanuel, claimed that the suspension and impeachment of the council chairmen were procedurally flawed. He called on the government to uphold democratic principles and follow due process in addressing disputes.