EFCC Invites Embattled 18 LGC Council Chairmen For Questioning
By Simeon OSAJIE
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited all the embattled 18 Local Government Council Chairmen in Edo State for questioning over their financial records.
Their invitation is contained in a letter addressed to the Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG), through the Permanent Secretary (PS), Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, dated December 17, 2024.
The letter titled “Investigation Activities, Letter of Invitation, reads: “The Commission is investigating a case in which the need to request for certain clarification from the 18 local Government Chairmen have become imperative.
“In view of the above, you are requested to kindly inform and release the 18 Local Government Chairmen to attend an interview with the undersigned through ACE ll Dare Folarin at The Commission’s Benin Zonal Directorate, No.1 High Court Road, G.R.A. Benin Edo State, Nigeria at 1000 hours.”
The anti-corruption agency allocated two days for the chairmen on two batches.
“The Chairmen of Akoko-Edo, Egor, Esan Central, Esan North East, Esan South East, Esan West, Etsako Central, Etsako East and Etsako West should report on Thursday 19th December, 2024, while Igueben, Ikpoba Okha, Orhionmwon, Ovia North East, Ovia South West, Owan East, Owan West and Uhunmwode Local Government Councils report on Friday 20th December 2024.”
EFCC demanded documents relating to salaries and other specified items.
“The Chairmen are required to come along with the Certified True Copies of comprehensive documentation relating to staff strength and payroll,” the letter stated.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has set up a seven Man Panel of Enquiry to look into the affairs of the 18 local government councils.
