Authorities Investigate Edo Local Government Chief, Call in Staff for Questioning

The Nigeria Police Force has launched an investigation into alleged financial irregularities in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, with the acting Chairman invited for questioning over claims involving more than N100 million.

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The investigation, which is being handled by the Police Special Fraud Unit, PSFU, Lagos, was prompted by a petition from a civil society organisation, Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative, that raised concerns about financial transactions within the council.

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A letter of invitation from the PSFU has requested the acting chairman to appear before the Commissioner of Police on March 25, 2026, at 11a.m. to provide clarification on issues contained in the petition.

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The exercise is part of efforts by the police to obtain a clearer understanding of the issues at hand, with two senior officials of the council already questioned by investigators on March 17.

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The investigation is being handled by the unit’s Stock and Capital Market Fraud Section, according to sources familiar with the matter.

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The petition that sparked the investigation alleged that funds belonging to the local government were transferred through certain private entities in transactions that require further scrutiny.

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It also called for a review of financial records and processes within the council, as well as an examination of internal administrative procedures and financial controls.

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Concerns were raised regarding claims that some officials may have acted under pressure in the course of their duties, with the petition urging authorities to examine relevant documents, including bank records and contractual agreements.

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The petition further urged authorities to take appropriate action based on their findings, although at press time, the acting Chairman and the officials mentioned had not issued any public response to the police invitation or the issues raised.

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Police authorities have not announced any conclusions, maintaining that the investigation is ongoing, with no further updates available at this time.