EFCC Arrests Edo Monarch, Engineer Over Dangote Cement Fund Scam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, HRM Michael Sado, and an engineer, Patrick Omkhagbo, over alleged fraudulent activities involving community funds.

The arrest followed a petition submitted to the anti-graft agency’s Benin Zonal Directorate by the Ukhomuniyo Council of Village Heads through their legal representatives, A.O. Osagie & Associates.

The petitioners accused the monarch of allegedly converting the Ukhomuniyo community into his personal estate by diverting funds meant for the community from natural resources in the area into his personal account.

They further alleged that the traditional ruler disrespected the community and usurped the constitutional powers of the state government.

According to the petition, the monarch also breached the existing Community Development Agreement between Dangote Cement and the Ukhomuniyo community.

The agreement, which was reportedly drawn from provisions of Section 116 of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007, stipulates that the host mineral-producing community where mining activities take place is entitled to annual financial benefits.

The petitioners stated that the agreement provides for an annual payment of N250m to the host community.

They, however, alleged that the monarch opened another bank account in the name of Okpella Community Development without the consent of the community and allegedly made himself the sole signatory to the account.

The petition further claimed that tensions in the community had risen, alleging that the monarch threatened to instigate intra-communal conflict if the allegations against him were pursued.

According to the petitioners, community leaders have been appealing to youths to remain calm and avoid violence despite the growing tension.

A source in the Benin zonal office of the EFCC, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the arrest of the suspects.

The source said the arrest was a routine step following the petition, adding that the outcome of the ongoing interrogation would determine the commission’s next course of action.