From Our Crime Correspondent
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has summoned the suspended chairpersons of all 18 local government councils in Edo State for questioning.
This directive was communicated through a letter signed by the agency’s Director of Investigation, Abdulkarim Chukkol, and addressed to the Secretary to the Edo State Government.
According to the letter dated December 17, chairpersons from Akoko-Edo, Egor, Esan Central, Esan North East, Esan South East, and Esan West are required to appear at the EFCC office on Thursday, December 19 (today). Additionally, the chairpersons of Etsako Central, Etsako East, and Etsako West have also been invited for questioning on the same day.
The remaining chairpersons, representing Igueben, Ikpoba Okha, Orhionmwon, Ovia North East, Ovia South West, Owan East, Owan West, and Uhunmwode, are scheduled to report to the commission on Friday, December 20.
The EFCC has directed the council leaders to provide certified true copies of detailed documentation, including staff strength, payroll records, accounts used for staff salaries, accounts reserved for salary exigencies, and corresponding statements from January 1 to date.
This investigation is being carried out under Section 38(1) and (2) of the EFCC (Establishment) Act, 2004.
The invitation follows the suspension of the chairpersons and their deputies by the Edo State House of Assembly on December 17.
The legislators cited alleged insubordination and misconduct after the officials failed to submit financial statements as directed by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
