Lokoja, Kogi State – A local pressure group, Ibaji Progressive Youth Foundation, has petitioned the Kogi State House of Assembly, demanding the immediate reinstatement of Hon. Ugeh Emmanuel, the suspended Chairman of Ibaji Local Government Area, citing constitutional violations and disregard for the rule of law.
In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, the group described the suspension of the chairman as “unconstitutional” and “illegitimate,” arguing that the House lacks the power to unilaterally suspend or remove a democratically elected local government official.
“The Constitution does not empower State Houses of Assembly with the unilateral authority to suspend or remove democratically elected Chairmen or Councillors of Local Government Councils,” the letter read. “Such powers, if they exist or are to be exercised, must be clearly delineated within enabling laws and strictly adhere to the principles of due process, natural justice, and the rule of law.”
The group also expressed disappointment with the prolonged silence of the 5-man panel set up by the House to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against the chairman, which has failed to release its findings or communicate any progress.
“We demand the prompt and public release of the findings and report of the 5-man panel,” said Comr. Apeh Kelvin Abuchi, National President of Ibaji Progressive Youth Foundation. “Transparency is paramount, and the people of Ibaji have a right to know the specific allegations and the outcome of any investigation purportedly conducted under the authority of the House.”
The suspended chairman was removed on November 12, 2025, citing “gross misconduct,” but the group argues that the process was flawed and disregarded established legal procedures.
The petition has been copied to several authorities, including the Attorney General of the Federation, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, and the Ukomu Igala Organization, among others.
The development has sparked concerns about the erosion of democratic principles and the rule of law in Kogi State, with calls for the authorities to respect the will of the people and uphold the Constitution.