The Edo State PDP has accused Governor Monday Okpebholo of abducting councillors to enforce the suspension of local government chairmen.

PDP Chairman, Anthony Aziegbemi, alleged that five councillors from Orhionmwon and Akoko-Edo were taken by individuals linked to the state government. He claimed the councillors were targeted for refusing to sign impeachment notices against their chairmen.

Aziegbemi said Governor Okpebholo is using intimidation and illegal meetings to remove elected chairmen in all 18 councils. He accused the governor of appointing loyal councillors and heads of administration as interim leaders.

The PDP described the suspensions as unconstitutional and said they defied a ruling by the Chief Judge of Edo State. The court had declared such actions illegal and void, citing a Supreme Court decision affirming the rights of elected officials.

The party accused the state government of ignoring legal advice from President Tinubu through the Attorney General. Aziegbemi condemned the alleged use of thugs and threats to enforce the suspensions.

He urged the governor to respect the law and stop undermining democracy in Edo State. The crisis has deepened tensions in the state, raising concerns about governance and legality.