The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has demanded an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into alleged financial misconduct linked to the recent suspensions of Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, and Chairman of the Edo State Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani.
In a statement made by the party’s state chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, the PDP expressed deep concern over what it described as reckless financial management under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration. Aziegbemi stated, “We urge relevant security agencies, including the Department of State Services, the military, the police, and the EFCC, to investigate the fraudulent activities and financial recklessness characterising the government’s operations over the past two months.”
The suspensions of Osagie and Lawani were initiated after allegations of financial infractions surfaced, marking a significant development in the ongoing scrutiny of state officials under Okpebholo. This brings the total number of high-profile suspensions to three, following the earlier suspension of Ahmed Momoh, Executive Director/CEO of the State Flood Erosion and Watershed Management Agency, for insubordination.
In a letter dated February 5, 2025, signed by Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, it was confirmed that a committee would be formed to investigate the allegations against Osagie and Lawani, with both officials remaining suspended until the investigation concludes. The letter stated, “The suspension of Hon Damian Lawani and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice became necessary to enable the government to carry out a thorough investigation into the allegation of financial infractions levelled against them.”
Osagie has publicly denied the allegations, asserting his innocence and readiness to defend his reputation. “I am not and was never involved in any financial dealings with anyone nor committed any financial infraction of any kind. I will defend myself to clear my name and hard-earned reputation,” he stated.
Aziegbemi further emphasized that the suspensions reflect systemic corruption within the Okpebholo administration, claiming that the findings are merely the tip of the iceberg. He cited issues such as the illegal removal of elected council chairpersons and a drastic drop in the state’s internally generated revenue.
The PDP has called on the federal government to intervene urgently in Edo State, restore local governments to their elected officials, and ensure their autonomy for effective grassroots development.
In response, Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, the state Publicity Secretary for the All Progressives Congress, indicated that his party would provide a formal statement on the situation soon.
