Suspected thugs on Monday barricaded the Etsako West Local Government Secretariat in Auchi, Edo State, preventing the council chairman, Marvellous Zibiri, and workers from accessing their offices.
The incident follows the suspension of all 18 council chairmen and their deputies by the Edo State House of Assembly on December 17, 2024.
The House’s decision came after Governor Monday Okpebholo petitioned the Assembly, accusing the chairmen of refusing to submit financial records of their councils. Legislative leaders were mandated to take over the councils for two months.
The chairmen challenged their suspension in court, and Justice Efe Ikponmwhonba of the Edo State High Court overturned the Assembly’s decision on December 20, reinstating the suspended officials.
However, efforts by some chairmen to resume duties on December 23 were blocked by suspected thugs stationed at various council secretariats.
During a visit to the Etsako West Secretariat on Monday, it was observed that the main gate was barricaded by suspected hoodlums who denied the chairman, his deputy, and workers entry.
Council staff, who reported for work, were seen sitting under trees outside the premises, unable to carry out their duties.
A police van was stationed at the secretariat’s entrance, but officers appeared disinterested in the situation, standing aloof while the hoodlums maintained their blockade.
A worker who spoke with Punch said, “We reported to duty this morning only to find the gate of the secretariat locked by suspected thugs.
“It is a sad development and I hope it can be resolved soon. The police are here but they seem not to be interested in what is happening. It is a sad situation.”
