.jpeg)
Jane Otu, South South
DAILY COURIER - Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has accused 18 suspended local government chairmen in the state of diverting approximately ₦12 billion to leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over a span of 15 months. The governor made the allegation on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by acting chairmen and councillors to the Government House.
Governor Okpebholo revealed that upon assuming office, a meeting with the Accountant-General exposed questionable financial transactions. A recurring expenditure item labeled “Environmental Security Funding” attracted scrutiny, as it allegedly involved monthly remittances of ₦800 million.
“When I came into office, I noticed spending items that had no explanations. One of them was tagged Environmental Security Funding — a term I had never encountered. These chairmen contributed this money monthly and gave it to party leaders,” Okpebholo stated.
Efforts to obtain clarification from the chairmen proved unsuccessful. According to the governor, they failed to submit financial records within two weeks as directed, prompting a formal petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for an investigation.
Governor Okpebholo explained that his deputy initially met with the chairmen to demand accountability. However, they neither complied with instructions to present their financial records nor honored invitations by the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA). Their defiance led to a two-month suspension by the Assembly.
“These chairmen refused to cooperate with the state legislature. They disrespected due process and transparency. Their actions warranted their suspension,” the governor said.
Highlighting the dire state of primary education, Governor Okpebholo lamented the mismanagement of public funds. He pointed out that while schools lacked adequate teaching staff, local government resources were allegedly being funneled for partisan purposes.
“When you visit primary schools, you find only two or three teachers where there should be 10 or 12. Yet, these funds were misused under the guise of ‘security funding,’” he added.
The governor commended the acting chairmen and councillors for their commitment to transparency and grassroots development. He urged them to prioritize the welfare of their communities, emphasizing that public funds belong to the people.
“I recognize you as the legitimate local government leaders. You are empowered to drive development at the grassroots level. Let the resources meant for the people be used for their benefit,” Okpebholo advised.
Hon. Damian Lawani, Chairman of the Local Government Commission, assured the governor of the acting chairmen’s dedication to good governance. He pledged their collaboration with the state government to deliver the dividends of democracy.
Speaking on behalf of the acting chairmen, Hon. Iradia Benjamin Osas (Uhunmwonde), Hon. Godsent Agboibo (Esan West), and Hon. Joy Ohonyon (Owan West) reaffirmed their loyalty to the administration. They vowed to ensure grassroots development and support the governor's vision for progress in Edo State.
Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to accountability and transparency, urging all government officials to align with these principles.
“The funds allocated to local governments are not personal property. They are for the people at the grassroots. Let us work together to build a better Edo State,” he concluded.
Okpebholo seeks Edo Assembly’s confirmation of 6 as commissioners
Meanwhile, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has forwarded names of six commissioner-nominees to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.
The names of the nominees were forwarded to the Assembly through a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Umar Musa Ikhilor.
Those nominated as Commissioners include Hon. Paul Nosayaba Ohonbamu, Dr. Washington Osa Osifo, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, Sir Lucky Eseigbe, Andrew ljegbai, and Barr. Marie Olabisi Idaomi.
.jpeg)
