The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday invited all the suspended 18 Local Government Council Chairmen in Edo State for questioning over their financial records.
The invitation was contained in a letter titled, “Investigation Activities, letter of Invitation” by EFFC Director of Investigation, Abdulkarim Chukkol, addressed to the Secretary to the State Government.
Chukkol, in the letter dated Dec. 17, directed the chairmen of Akoko-Edo, Egor, Esan Central, Esan North East, Esan South East, and Esan West, to report at its office on Thursday, Dec. 19.
Others also expected at the commission on Thursday are the chairmen of Etsako Central, Etsako East, and Etsako West local governments.
The remaining chairmen from Igueben, Ikpoba Okha, Orhionmwon, Ovia North East, Ovia South West, Owan East, Owan West, and Uhunmwode local governments are scheduled to report on Friday, Dec. 20.
The commission’s director of investigation requested that the chairmen come with certified true copies of comprehensive documentation relating to staff strength and payroll.
Other documents requested included details of accounts where funds are received for payment of staff salaries, details of accounts where funds are reserved for staff salary exigencies, the statement of account of the said accounts from Jan. 1 to Date.
He said the request was made pursuant to Section 38(1);(2) of the EFCC (Establishment) Act, 2004.
The state House of Assembly had on Dec. 17 suspended the chairmen and the vice chairmen for alleged insubordination and misconduct.
The suspension reportedly followed their failure to submit their financial statements as directed by Gov. Monday Okpebholo.