Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has suspended the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, along with the Chairman of the State Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani.
The decision follows allegations of serious misconduct and financial irregularities.
The Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, announced the suspension, stating that an investigative committee will examine the allegations.
The suspension aims to allow a thorough probe into the matter.
“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that the Gov. Monday Okpebholo has approved the suspension from office of the Chairman of Edo Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie over allegations of grave official and financial infractions.
“The suspension is with immediate effect.
“Consequently, the governor has ordered the setting up of an Investigative Committee to investigate the allegations levelled against them and make appropriate recommendations accordingly.
“The suspension of Osagie and Lawani became necessary to enable the government to carry out a thorough investigation into the allegation of financial infractions levelled against them.
“The suspension is pending the conclusion of the investigation,” the SSG said.
The suspension came less than three months after the two officials were appointed.
Meanwhile, Okpebholo is set to probe the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki following recommendations from the Edo State Assets Verification Committee.
The committee, led by Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, submitted its report in Benin City, revealing alleged cases of financial mismanagement and improper use of government resources.
The findings also pointed to possible fraud and corruption, urging a full investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
The panel advised the state government to review past contracts, agreements, and leases to ensure they were fair and beneficial to the people of Edo State.
However, Obaseki dismissed the report, describing it as false and an attempt to tarnish his administration’s image.
His media aide, Crusoe Osagie, insisted that all government transactions were properly documented and handed over to Okpebholo’s administration.
