Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, made startling revelations on Tuesday about the financial misconduct of the suspended 18 Local Government Council Chairmen.
According to his Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua, in a detailed account, Governor Okpebholo disclosed that these Chairmen had remitted approximately N12 billion to leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over 15 months. The Governor shared these revelations during a courtesy visit by the acting Chairmen and Councillors of the 18 Local Government Areas at the Government House in Benin City.
While addressing the acting Chairmen and Councillors, Governor Okpebholo commended them for their courage and dedication to upholding democratic values and ensuring financial transparency at the local government level. He emphasized that the funds of the local government belong to the people and should not be misappropriated for personal or political gains.
Governor Okpebholo recounted his initial discovery upon assuming office. “When I came into office, I had a meeting with the Accountant-General, who presented some financial records. I noticed several unexplained expenditures, particularly a recurring item labeled ‘Environmental Security Funding,’ which accounted for N800 million every month. This prompted me to investigate further, as such a significant amount allocated to an unfamiliar expenditure item was concerning.”
The Governor revealed that upon further investigation, it became evident that the funds were being funneled to leaders of a political party without proper justification. Efforts to get explanations from the suspended Chairmen were futile. “I invited the Chairmen for a meeting to explain these expenditures, but they were uncooperative. My Deputy also attempted to get clarity from them, but none could provide adequate explanations. They failed to submit their financial records despite several ultimatums, prompting me to report the matter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), which resulted in their suspension.”
Governor Okpebholo highlighted the impact of the misappropriation on essential public services, particularly education. “Our schools were severely under-resourced, with primary schools operating with only two or three teachers instead of the required ten to twelve. This wasteful spending by the Chairmen was unacceptable.”
He praised the acting Chairmen for stepping in and changing the narrative, stating that impeaching corrupt officials who misuse public funds is lawful and necessary. “You have demonstrated integrity by upholding the law and prioritizing the welfare of the grassroots. Your actions ensure that local government funds are used for development purposes as intended.”
Governor Okpebholo assured the acting Chairmen of his administration’s support in driving development at the grassroots level. “The local government remains a critical tier of governance, and I am ready to collaborate with you to ensure that every Council area progresses. The Local Government Commission will work with you to provide the necessary support for your success in serving the people.”
Chairman of the Local Government Commission, Hon. Damian Lawani, who led the acting Chairmen to the courtesy visit, affirmed their commitment to good governance. He assured the Governor that the acting Chairmen are prepared to work closely with the state administration to deliver the dividends of democracy to the grassroots.
Supporting this commitment, the acting Chairmen from Uhunmwonde, Esan West, and Owan West Local Government Areas—Hon. Iradia Benjamin Osas, Hon. Godsent Agboibo, and Hon. Joy Ohonyon respectively—pledged their loyalty to the Governor’s administration. They vowed to support Senator Okpebholo’s leadership and collaborate in ensuring development and good governance reach every corner of Edo State.
