By Abigail Philip David
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has accused the 18 suspended local government chairmen of diverting and remitting over N12 billion to leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) within 15 months.
However, the Chairman of the PDP Caretaker Committee in Edo, Tony Aziegbemi, dismissed the allegations, challenging the governor to provide evidence. He advised Okpebholo to involve the anti-corruption agency rather than make unsubstantiated claims.
Allegations of Mismanagement
Governor Okpebholo, speaking during a meeting with acting council chairmen and councillors at the Government House, alleged that the suspended chairmen funneled funds meant for environmental security into party activities.
“When I came into office, I discovered unexplained expenses in the records. One particularly alarming expenditure labeled ‘Environmental Security Funding’ amounted to N800 million monthly. This money, I learned, was allegedly being remitted to PDP leaders,” Okpebholo said.
The governor added that multiple attempts to get the suspended chairmen to explain the expenditures failed, prompting him to refer the matter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Edo State House of Assembly.
Suspension and Legal Battles
The Edo State House of Assembly suspended the 18 council chairmen on December 17, 2024, following a petition from the governor citing their refusal to submit financial records. The suspended officials have since taken legal action, with a Federal High Court in Abuja ordering that the status quo be maintained pending the case’s determination.
Meanwhile, legislative leaders in some councils have assumed executive roles, with reports of impeachment proceedings against certain suspended chairmen.
PDP’s Response
Aziegbemi, while rejecting the governor’s allegations, called the claims baseless and demanded evidence.
“We challenge the governor to specify who received what, when, and how. No such money was given to PDP leaders. If the governor has proof, let him forward it to the anti-corruption agency instead of throwing baseless accusations,” Aziegbemi said.
He also criticized the governor for attempting to justify the chairmen’s suspension through unverified claims, adding, “We live in a country governed by the rule of law, and such actions must follow due process.”
Calls for Development at the Grassroots
Governor Okpebholo urged the acting chairmen to prioritize development, emphasizing that funds should be used to improve education, infrastructure, and social services at the grassroots level.
“The local government funds belong to the people, not individuals. Use these resources to deliver meaningful projects and improve the lives of those you serve,” he said.
Damian Lawani, Chairman of the Local Government Commission, assured the governor of the acting chairmen’s commitment to grassroots development and support for his administration.
As the controversy continues, the focus remains on resolving the legal disputes and ensuring accountability in the management of local government funds in Edo State.
