12 ex-Imo LG chairmen face EFCC probe over alleged diversion of N118.1bn

The immediate past chairmen of the 12 local government areas in Orlu Zone of Imo State are facing legal scrutiny, as a coalition known as the Orluzurumee Youth Assembly (OYA) has requested the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate allegations of misappropriation and embezzlement of about N118.1 billion. This petition, filed by OYA's lawyer, Emmanuel Chiagoziem Osi, was officially acknowledged by the EFCC on October 12, 2026.

The group's pursuit of this investigation stems from their inability to obtain financial records through formal Freedom of Information Act requests. The OYA's National President, Prince Izunna Obiefule, emphasized the importance of holding former council chairmen accountable for the public funds entrusted to their administrations.

Obiefule highlighted the urgent need for transparency and responsible public leadership, expressing concern over the poor state of public infrastructure, inadequate access to basic services, and insufficient youth empowerment initiatives across the Orlu Zone. The coalition alleges that the funds might have been diverted through fraudulent contracts or unfulfilled projects.

They urge proper investigation into the councils' financial records, contracts, project execution reports, and payment documents to ensure adherence to financial accountability principles. OYA stresses that public funds are held in trust for the people and must be managed responsibly to promote transparency, good governance, and sustainable development across the 12 local government areas in the zone.