Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has suspended two prominent officials in the state government amidst serious allegations of official and financial misconduct. The affected officials are Mr. Damian Lawani, the Chairman of the State’s Local Government Service Commission, and Samson Osagie, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.
The suspension, which took effect immediately, was confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday evening by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor.
The statement read: “In light of the serious allegations, the Governor has directed the establishment of an Investigative Committee to probe the accusations and provide appropriate recommendations.”
It continued: “The suspensions of Hon. Damian Lawani and the Honorable Attorney-General are crucial to ensure a fair and comprehensive investigation into the financial infractions alleged against them. They will remain suspended until the investigation is concluded.”
However, Samson Osagie, the suspended Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, has strongly rejected the accusations of financial misconduct. In a statement issued early Thursday morning, Osagie expressed frustration over the lack of prior communication from the state government regarding the allegations before the suspension was made public.
“I want to make it clear that I have never been involved in any financial transactions with anyone, nor have I committed any financial wrongdoing,” Osagie stated. “Furthermore, no one confronted me with these allegations prior to my suspension.”
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to defending his integrity and protecting the reputation he has cultivated over the years.
