-Protesters Demand Accountability Over Development Funds
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has committed to a comprehensive investigation into claims of misappropriated local government funds in Kogi State, following a formal petition from the Igala Youth Council.
The youth group, led by President Onogu Collins, submitted the petition on Wednesday at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, urging immediate action against what they described as a “systematic diversion” of funds intended for grassroots development across the state’s 21 local government areas.
In the petition dated November 26, 2025, the council raisedaccounted federal allocations to Kogi’s local governments during 2024 and 2025, specifically naming Dekina, Yagba East, and Adavi as affected areas.
The document read in part: “Our investigation reveals a systematic misappropriation of funds earmarked for workers’ welfare, community advancement, and local development.”
Among their demands are an independent audit of all allocations from 2024 to the present, full transparency in fund usage, and the investigation and prosecution of individuals found responsible.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale addressed the protesters, assuring them of the commission’s commitment to a thorough and decisive response.
“We can assure you that, consistent with EFCC’s standards, this petition will be diligently reviewed and investigated,” Oyewale stated.
This development comes just over a year after EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede emphasized the agency’s intensified efforts to monitor and track expenditures by local government chairpersons nationwide, highlighting concerns over state-level interference in local finances.
The EFCC has expanded its operational reach across Nigeria to strengthen anti-corruption measures at all tiers of governance.
