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Feb
Feb
N96BN LG FRAUD: NAZI OBASEKI AND FELLOW TREASURY LOOTERS HAVE MURDERED SLEEP IN EDO STATE
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Nicolas Adekeye / 3 weeks
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- 4 min read
By Fred Itua Governance at the grassroots level is the most fundamental pillar of democracy. When local government councils, which are closest to the people, fail in their responsibilities, the impact is felt directly by citizens through stalled development, poor infrastructure, and diminished public trust. This is why the recent report of the Investigative Panel on Local Government Finances in Edo State is not just another document; it is a call to action. The decision to set up the Investigative Panel was not arbitrary; it was necessitated by growing concerns over financial mismanagement across the 18 Local Government Councils. The alarming lack of visible developmental projects, despite substantial allocations, raised critical questions that demanded answers. It was in response to these concerns that the government, committed to transparency and accountability, constituted the panel to conduct a thorough investigation into the financial activities of the councils. With a mandate to examine revenue inflows, expenditure patterns, and the overall financial integrity of the councils, the panel embarked on a meticulous process, employing forensic analysis, document reviews, and interviews with key stakeholders. Although some challenges were encountered, including late and incomplete financial records, the panel was still able to piece together a revealing and deeply troubling picture. The panel’s findings are damning. Over ₦95 billion accrued to the councils between September 4, 2023, and the present, yet very few meaningful projects were executed. Instead, the panel uncovered widespread financial recklessness, including: The revelations in this report are not just numbers on paper—they represent stolen opportunities for development, broken trust in leadership, and a blatant disregard for the welfare of the people. To allow these findings to be swept under the carpet would be a gross injustice to the citizens who depend on local governments for basic amenities and services. Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration will take decisive action. This investigative report will not gather dust in government archives. It will serve as a turning point for local governance in Edo State. The government has taken a bold step by uncovering these irregularities, but it will further show its commitment to accountability in its resolve to act on these findings. Implementing the recommendations to the letter is not just an administrative necessity by the Okpebholo administration —it is a moral obligation to the people, and Governor Okpebholo is ready to act fast. The grassroots deserve better. The people deserve accountability. For Godwin Obaseki, PDP public funds looters and impeached local government chairmen, their sun will set at noon. Fred Itua is the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor.
