Benin City, January 9, 2025 — Senator Monday Okpebholo has accused the suspended local government chairmen of funneling over N12 billion to leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) within the last 15 months.
Okpebholo made this disclosure during a recent media briefing, highlighting the alleged financial improprieties and the mismanagement of public funds by the suspended chairmen. He stated, “It has come to our attention that the suspended local government chairmen have diverted over N12 billion meant for development projects to PDP leaders. This gross misuse of funds is unacceptable and a betrayal of the trust placed in them by the people of Edo State.”
The governor’s accusations have sparked widespread outrage among the citizens, who have expressed their disappointment and anger over the misappropriation of funds that could have been used to improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare in the state.
The suspended chairmen, however, have vehemently denied the allegations, claiming that the accusations are politically motivated. They have called for an independent investigation to ascertain the truth and to clear their names.
In response to Okpebholo’s claims, the PDP leadership in Edo State has also issued a statement refuting the allegations. They maintain that the party has always advocated for transparency and accountability in governance and that any member found guilty of financial misconduct should be held accountable.