Governor Monday Okpebholo has accused 18 suspended Local Government Chairmen of mismanaging approximately N12 billion, allegedly remitted to leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over 15 months. The Governor disclosed the allegations during a courtesy visit by acting Local Government Chairmen and Councilors to the Government House in Benin City.
According to Governor Okpebholo, the misappropriated funds were funneled under questionable pretenses, including a monthly contribution of N800 million labeled as “Environmental Security Funding.” He described the actions of the suspended chairmen as a betrayal of public trust, emphasizing the need for accountability at all levels of government.
“When I assumed office, I reviewed records presented by the Accountant-General, and I found spending entries tagged as ‘Environmental Security Funding,’” the Governor explained. “The amounts were staggering, with N800 million being disbursed monthly. These funds, instead of being used for grassroots development, were allegedly remitted to party leaders without any justification.”
The Governor recounted that initial efforts to seek clarification from the suspended chairmen were met with resistance. Despite being summoned to provide explanations for their spending and submit financial records, the chairmen reportedly failed to comply. “I invited the chairmen to a meeting, but they avoided direct engagement. My Deputy Governor met with them and gave them 48 hours to present their financial records, but they still failed to do so even after two weeks,” Okpebholo revealed.
Faced with the lack of cooperation, the Governor escalated the matter by involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and notifying the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA). He explained, “As a former parliamentarian, I understand the oversight functions of legislative bodies. I sent letters to the EFCC and EDHA to investigate the situation further.”
Impact on Public Services
Governor Okpebholo expressed frustration at how the alleged mismanagement had impacted public services, particularly education. He lamented the lack of sufficient teachers in primary schools, stating, “In many primary schools, you find only two or three teachers where there should be 10 to 12. Meanwhile, funds meant for the development of these communities were being misused.”
The Governor assured the acting chairmen of his administration’s support in driving meaningful development to the grassroots. “The money belongs to the people and must be used for their benefit. I recognize you as my Chairmen, and together, we will ensure progress reaches every corner of the state,” he affirmed.
Acting Chairmen Pledge Collaboration
The acting Local Government Chairmen, led by Damian Lawani, Chairman of the State Local Government Commission, pledged their loyalty to Governor Okpebholo’s administration. They assured him of their readiness to collaborate in delivering the dividends of democracy to grassroots communities.
“We are committed to working closely with your administration to ensure that the people at the grassroots level enjoy good governance and development,” Lawani said.
Representatives from Uhunmwonde, Esan West, and Owan West Local Governments also echoed similar sentiments, promising to prioritize transparency and efficient use of resources.
A New Chapter for Grassroots Governance
Governor Okpebholo commended the acting chairmen for their courage in upholding democratic principles and ensuring accountability. He urged them to remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the people, stressing that their actions had “changed the narrative” of governance at the local level.
“The only way to bring development to the grassroots is through you, the local government leaders,” he said. “You have full power to serve your people, and my administration will provide the necessary support to help you succeed.”
The Governor concluded by reaffirming his administration’s dedication to transparency and good governance, emphasizing that public funds must always be utilized for the benefit of the people.
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