Edo State Government suspends Attorney-General Samson Osagie and LG Service Commission Chairman Damian Lawani over alleged financial infractions

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Edo State Government has suspended the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, alongside the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani, over allegations of “grave official and financial infractions.”

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The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was announced on Thursday morning by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr Musa Ikhilor, in Benin, the state capital.

According to Ikhilor, Governor Monday Okpebholo approved the suspension to allow for a thorough investigation into the alleged misconduct.

“The suspension is with immediate effect. Consequently, the governor has ordered the setting up of an investigative committee to probe the allegations and make appropriate recommendations,” the statement read.

The move comes less than three months after Osagie and Lawani were appointed to their respective positions, raising concerns about governance and accountability within the state’s leadership.

The Edo State Government emphasised that the suspension is a precautionary measure to ensure an unbiased investigation.

The probe will focus on financial irregularities and official misconduct, with findings expected to determine the next course of action.

While the specific nature of the infractions has not yet been disclosed, the government’s swift action signals a strong stance against corruption and administrative malpractice.

The suspension of two high-ranking officials so early into their tenure has sparked political discussions in Edo State.

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Analysts suggest that the development may impact the stability of the state’s governance, especially as Governor Okpebholo’s administration continues to navigate key policy and leadership decisions.