EFCC arrests Okpella monarch Michael Sado over alleged fraud linked to community funds from mining activities in Edo State

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested the paramount ruler (Okuokpellagbe) of Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, Michael Sado, over alleged fraudulent activities linked to community funds.

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Also arrested in connection with the case is Patrick Omkhagbo, an engineer believed to be associated with the matter.

Sources familiar with the investigation said the arrest followed a petition submitted to the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Office by the Council of Village Heads (Ukhomuyo) in Okpella through their legal representatives, A. O. Osagie & Associates.

An official at the anti-graft agency, who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the investigation, confirmed that EFCC arrests Michael Sado after receiving the petition.

“The arrest of the duo remains a routine action based on the petition against them. The outcome of their interrogation will determine the next step to be taken,” the source said.

Community leaders alleged that the traditional ruler diverted funds meant for the Ukhomuyio community, particularly revenue accruing from natural resources in the area, into a personal account.

Members of the Council of Village Heads further accused the monarch of attempting to convert the Ukhomuyio community into what they described as a personal estate, while allegedly disregarding established governance structures within the community.

The petition also claimed that the monarch breached the Community Development Agreement signed between Dangote Cement Plc, through its Okpella Cement operations, and the Ukhomuyio host community.

According to the agreement, which community leaders say draws from Section 116 of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, the host community is entitled to annual financial benefits from mining activities carried out in the area.

Community representatives said the agreement stipulates that the host mineral-producing community should receive an annual payment of ₦250 million from the mining operations.

However, they alleged that another bank account named Okpella Community Development was opened without reference to the existing agreement, with the monarch reportedly serving as the sole signatory.

In the petition, the community leaders also warned of rising tension within Okpella, claiming that the suspect had threatened that escalating the allegations could lead to intra-communal conflict.

“Our clients have been pleading with members and youths of Ukhomunyio Community not to engage in violent conduct,” part of the petition stated.

The petition further urged the EFCC to investigate and prosecute anyone found complicit in the alleged financial irregularities, including officials connected to the mining operations.