Kehinde Fajobi
A panel set up by Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has indicted former Governor Godwin Obaseki and key Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders over an alleged ₦96 billion fraud involving the state’s 18 recently impeached local government chairmen.
The panel, inaugurated on December 18, 2024, investigated financial activities in the councils between September 2023 and November 2024.
Speaking on Sunday, February 16, while receiving the panel’s report, Okpebholo commended its members and vowed to ensure that indicted officials face prosecution.
“Nigerians need to start demanding accountability from elected public office holders. It is the only way to fight corruption and ensure development,” he said.
“The administration of former governor Godwin Obaseki took Edo people for granted. They took everything belonging to the Edo people and channelled it for their personal gains.
“A lot has happened. The PDP leaders looted the treasuries of the local governments in Edo and stole our collective patrimony, and nobody went after them or took action.
“This time, things are different. We will go after them and retrieve what they have stolen from the Edo people.
“They will be made to pay for it. I will personally take this document to the EFCC and ensure that justice is done for this wrong done to Edo people.”
Panel Chairman Solomon Imohiosen revealed that ₦95 billion was received by the councils during the period under review but was not properly utilised.
He also disclosed that over ₦10 billion was fraudulently siphoned under the guise of security, environment, and training, with funds being transferred to individuals and companies.
Imohiosen noted that the investigation faced challenges, including delayed and incomplete financial records, and accused former ALGON chairman Oghomwen Ugiagbe and others of using businesses to divert funds.
READ ALSO: ₦95bn Looted? Panel Indicts Obaseki, PDP Chiefs in Edo Corruption Scandal
“The panel’s investigation uncovered significant irregularities in the financial activities of the 18 local government councils in Edo,” he stated.
“The recommendations outlined in the panel’s report aim to address the irregularities and promote transparency and accountability in the finances of Edo local government councils.”
Governor Okpebholo assured that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) would prosecute those found guilty.