Bombshell: Attorney-General Declares Governors Have No Power to Sack Local Government Chairmen

By Achimi muktar

In a bold declaration, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has stated unequivocally that no governor in Nigeria holds the legal authority to remove elected local government chairmen or their councillors from office.

Fagbemi made this assertion during a citizen engagement on Justice Sector Reforms in Abuja, while addressing reporters about the controversial suspension of 18 Local Government Chairmen in Edo State by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Although Fagbemi admitted he lacked full details of the Edo incident, he emphasized that the law, supported by a recent Supreme Court judgment, clearly limits the powers of governors in local government matters.

“Since July 11, when the Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment, local government administration has changed dramatically,” Fagbemi stated. “For now, local government chairmen can only be removed through their legislative councils, not by the State House of Assembly or the governor.”

The suspension in Edo State came after Governor Okpebholo accused the chairmen of insubordination and gross misconduct, citing their refusal to submit financial accounts as demanded by his administration. The governor claimed he acted with the approval of the State House of Assembly.

However, Fagbemi reiterated the Tinubu administration's commitment to upholding the rule of law, adding that any actions outside the boundaries of legal provisions would be challenged.

“As we continue on this reform journey, let me reaffirm our commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring equitable access to justice, and building a system that serves all Nigerians fairly,” he said.

The AGF also highlighted key achievements in the justice sector, including the adoption of the National Policy on Justice (2024–2028), advancements in restorative justice for the FCT, and the implementation of plea-bargaining guidelines.

Additionally, the ministry has introduced initiatives to speed up trials, decongest prisons, and enhance the legal process. This includes furnishing courts within Kirikiri Prison in Lagos and installing virtual court systems to fast-track cases.

The battle for local government autonomy, amplified by Fagbemi’s remarks, signals a new era in Nigeria’s justice landscape—one where even the mightiest governors may face limits to their power.