The councils had since October 2010 been on interim committee basis till late September when the House of Assembly dissolved them and called for democratically elected officials in line with the 1999 Constitution. The earlier commission set up by the governor was dissolved by a court ruling in June this year.
Speaking at the swearing-in of the chairman and seven members of the new board, Oshiomhole said: “We have had to dissolve the former board in compliance with the order of the court. Although we didn’t agree with the order, we had to obey as we felt it was easier to obey the order than go through the process of appealing it.”
To ensure the impartiality of the chairman and members of the board, the governor said he invited the Chief Judge and judiciary in the state to nominate members, who in their opinion are competent and independent.
“Do whatever you can that is in full compliance with the law and put in motion the process of conducting a free and fair election,” he charged the members of commission.
“We have had a couple of elections in the recent times. I believe under your leadership we can expect to get a free and fair election in Edo State. I hope you understand the enormity of the task.
“I have been a victim of election rigging and I have promised myself and my God that I shall do everything possible to ensure that the electoral commission in the state conducts a free and fair election. I congratulate you but I also commiserate with you because the task before you is a very challenging one.”
On his part, Ogoh assured the governor and people of the state that the board comprised tested hands ready to conduct free and fair local council election in the state.
TheGuardian
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