The impeached chairman of Esan Central local government area of Edo state, Paul Iyoha, has accused Governor Monday Okpebholo of orchestrating his removal from office.
Iyoha faulted the process leading to his impeachment, noting that neither he nor other local government chairmen in the state were given a fair hearing before being suspended by the House of Assembly.
He lamented that the Councils’ bosses were not properly investigated or given the opportunity to defend themselves, insisting that he had carried out his duties effectively, ensuring prompt payment of salaries and allowances to councillors and staff.
Iyoha, who disclosed this to journalists Friday, expressed confidence that the judiciary would address the situation fairly while he continued to pursue legal redress.
He said his ‘sin’ was his political allegiance to Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the 2024 elections.
He described his ordeal as driven by political vendetta rather than legitimate governance concerns, adding that “my only offence was standing by my party candidate instead of supporting Governor Okpebholo, who hails from the same ward in Esan Central as myself.”
“As a loyal member of the PDP, I was duty-bound to support my party’s candidate. It is not a crime to work for one’s party. However, the governor has taken my political stance personally and is using his office to punish me.
“The governor told people that I will never return to my position because I opposed him politically. This is unfair and undemocratic,” he said.
Iyoha recounted the challenges he faced during the Edo governorship election, adding that he faced intimidation, including an attack on his residence, the abduction of his brother, and threats to his safety.
