The embattled chairman of Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State, Hon. Paul Iyoha, yesterday, alleged that his impeachment was instigated because he supported the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo in the September 21, 2024 governorship election in the state.

He made the allegation while addressing Journalists in Benin City.

Iyoha, while faulting the process leading to his removal, said that neither he nor other Local Government Chairmen in the State were given a fair hearing before being suspended by the Edo State House of Assembly.

He however alleged that the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo orchestrated his removal from office.

Iyoha insisted that he had carried out his duties effectively, ensuring prompt payment of salaries and allowances to councillors and staff.

Continuing , Iyoha said his ?sins? was his political allegiance to Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in the 2024 elections.

He described his ordeal as driven by political vendetta rather than legitimate governance concerns, adding, ?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 and 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.?

Iyoha further alleged that the governor openly vowed that he would not be reinstated as chairman, citing a video purportedly showing Iyoha campaigning against him during the election.

?The governor told people that I will never return to my position because I opposed him politically. This is unfair and undemocratic,? he added.

Continuing, Iyoha recounts 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.

He claimed these actions were parts of a broader effort to suppress opposition voices in the State.

Iyaho added, ?Despite the tensions, I attended the governor?s inauguration and I sent a congratulatory message, as a gesture of my respect for the office.?

He however criticized the administration for politicizing governance by involving party figures in official matters just as he expressed confidence in getting justice at the court. (Daily Sun)

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