The Okuokpellagbe of Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, His Royal Highness Michael Sado, has dismissed allegations of embezzling N250 million in community funds and being arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Speaking to journalists in Benin City on Monday, the monarch described the claims as false and orchestrated by individuals within the community who are opposed to recent reforms in the management of communal resources.
Sado clarified that his appearance at the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Office was in response to an official invitation regarding a petition, stressing that he was neither arrested nor detained by the anti-graft agency.
He expressed concern over what he termed a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation and that of the Okpella Kingdom through misinformation circulated across social media and some news platforms.
According to the royal father, the controversy stems from his decision to end longstanding practices where community funds were allegedly shared among a select few. He noted that his administration has introduced a new system aimed at ensuring transparency and directing resources toward the development of the entire community.
“Okpella generates substantial revenue, yet the community lacks basic infrastructure such as roads, stable electricity, and functional healthcare facilities. This must change,” he said.
Sado further emphasized that within seven months of his reign, several development projects worth billions of naira have been initiated, with more in the pipeline.
The monarch also revealed that the Okpella Traditional Council has taken legal steps against those behind the allegations. In a petition dated March 13, 2026, the council condemned the reports as damaging and misleading, warning of potential legal action.
The petition, filed by Lucky D Almafumeh & Co., described the publications as harmful to the image of both the monarch and the community, citing reputational damage and psychological distress.
The controversy follows earlier reports alleging that Sado and an associate, Engr. Patrick Omkhagbo, were arrested by the EFCC over claims of misappropriating community funds. The accusations were reportedly based on a petition submitted by the Ukhomuyo Council of Village Heads.
The petitioners had alleged that the monarch diverted funds derived from natural resources and treated the community as a personal estate—claims he has firmly denied.
As tensions persist, the situation highlights ongoing internal disputes over resource control and governance within the Okpella community.
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