Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has alleged that the suspended 18 local government council chairmen in the state diverted approximately ₦12 billion and remitted the funds to leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over a 15-month period.
The governor made the claims on Tuesday while hosting acting council chairmen and councillors at the Government House in Benin City. According to Okpebholo, financial records revealed unexplained expenditures, including ₦800 million monthly allocations labeled “Environmental Security Funding,” allegedly diverted to party leaders.
“When I reviewed the financial books with the Accountant-General, I discovered massive unexplained spending. Despite being asked to provide financial records and explain their expenditures, the chairmen failed to comply, leading to their suspension,” Okpebholo stated.
The governor also expressed frustration over the alleged misuse of funds, citing poor staffing levels in primary schools as an example of neglected grassroots priorities. He emphasised that local government funds are meant for development and warned council leaders against mismanagement.
In December 2024, the Edo State House of Assembly suspended the 18 council chairmen and vice-chairmen following their refusal to submit financial records. The suspended chairmen have since challenged their suspension in court, with the Federal High Court in Abuja ordering the status quo to be maintained pending further proceedings.
Okpebholo disclosed that letters were sent to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the State House of Assembly to investigate the allegations. He defended the impeachment of some council chairmen, describing it as a lawful move to curb corruption and wasteful spending.
The chairman of the Local Government Commission, Damian Lawani, assured the governor that the acting council bosses are committed to delivering grassroots development and ensuring transparency in local government operations.
However, the PDP dismissed the allegations as baseless. Tony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, denied any knowledge of the alleged funds and challenged the governor to provide evidence.
“No such money was given to PDP leaders. The governor must substantiate his claims with specifics—who received what, when, and how. Instead of making baseless accusations, he should report any findings to the anti-corruption agencies for proper investigation,” Aziegbemi said.
He also criticised the governor’s approach to justifying the chairmen’s suspension, describing it as an attempt to undermine the rule of law and the office of the governor.
