PDP Calls for Probe of Edo Gov’t Over Alleged Financial Mismanagement
Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, has called on security agencies and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the alleged financial recklessness and fraudulent activities within the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration.
Aziegbemi’s call comes after Governor Okpebholo’s suspension of two top officials: Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Samson Osagie, and Chairman of the Local Government Commission, Damian Lawani, due to accusations of fraud. The suspension, announced through a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, was attributed to “grave official and financial infractions.”
Osagie, however, denied the allegations in a viral statement, asserting that he is prepared to defend his reputation against the charges.
Aziegbemi reacted to the suspension, suggesting that it only scratches the surface of deeper systemic corruption and financial mismanagement under the Okpebholo administration. He emphasized that a thorough investigation is needed to uncover the full extent of alleged corruption, particularly within the first 85 days of Okpebholo’s tenure.
The PDP chairman highlighted several concerns, including the illegal removal of elected council chairpersons, misappropriation of local government funds, and a significant drop in the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) from N8 billion to N2 billion monthly. He described these issues as clear signs of misadministration and entrenched corruption.
The opposition party has called on the relevant security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), military, police, and EFCC, to thoroughly investigate the activities of the government during its initial months in office.
