Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited 18 embattled Local Government Council Chairmen in Edo State for questioning over their financial records.
Recall, the LGA chairmen are also expected to appear before the 7 man panel set up by the state government to look into finances.
Their invitation is contained in a letter addressed to the Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG), through the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. It is dated December 17, 2024.
Titled – Investigation Activities, letter of Invitation, the letter 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 Chaimen 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, Ettsako 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 Governmemt 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 (CTC)of comprehensive documentations relating to staff strength and payroll.