Drama Continues as EFCC Invites Suspended Edo Local Govt Chairmen For Questioning

Israel Adeleke

The political drama in Edo State has advanced as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) invited the suspended chairpersons of the 18 local councils in the state to its office for interrogation.

OTN News further reports as gathered that the EFCC invitation was contained in a letter by the agency’s Director of Investigation, Abdulkarim Chukkol, and addressed to the Secretary to the Edo State Government.

OTN News had earlier reported that the Edo House of Assembly suspended the chairpersons and vice chairpersons for alleged insubordination and misconduct.

The suspension followed their failure to submit their financial statements as directed by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

However, in a letter dated 17 December, Mr Chukkol directed the chairpersons of Akoko-Edo, Egor, Esan Central, Esan North East, Esan South East, and Esan West to report to its office on Thursday, 19 December (today).

Others also expected at the commission on Thursday are the chairpersons of Etsako Central, Etsako East, and Etsako West local governments.

The remaining chairpersons from Igueben, Ikpoba Okha, Orhionmwon, Ovia North East, Ovia South West, Owan East, Owan West, and Uhunmwode local governments are scheduled to report on Friday, 20 December.

The commission’s director of investigation requested that the chairpersons come with certified true copies of comprehensive documentation relating to staff strength and payroll.

Other documents requested included details of accounts where funds are received for payment of staff salaries, details of accounts where funds are reserved for staff salaries exigencies, and the statement of account of the said accounts from 1 January to date.

Mr Chukkol said the request was made based on Section 38(1); (2) of the EFCC (Establishment) Act, 2004.