Governor Okpebholo Reveals Shocking N12bn Remittance by Suspended Edo LG Chairmen to PDP Leaders Over 15 Months

Financial Accountability in Edo: The N12bn Remittance from Suspended LG Chairmen to PDP Leaders Explained by Governor Okpebholo

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has alleged that the state’s 18 suspended local government council chairmen remitted over ₦12 billion to leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over a 15-month period.

Governor Okpebholo made this revelation during a meeting with the acting chairmen and councillors of the 18 local government areas. He highlighted that an item labeled “Environmental Security Funding” accounted for ₦800 million monthly, which was allegedly funneled to PDP leaders.

The governor stated that upon discovering these expenditures, he sought explanations from the suspended chairmen, who failed to provide satisfactory accounts. Consequently, he referred the matter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Edo State House of Assembly, leading to the chairmen’s suspension.

In response, the chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, Tony Aziegbemi, denied the allegations, challenging the governor to provide evidence to support his claims. Aziegbemi emphasized that no such funds were received by PDP leaders and urged the governor to follow due process by involving anti-corruption agencies for investigation.

This development has intensified the political tension in Edo State, with the governor asserting the necessity of addressing corruption at the local government level to ensure that public funds are utilized for grassroots development.