The Edo State House of Assembly has launched an investigation into former Speaker Philip Agbebaku over alleged corruption in vehicle procurement [1].
The probe targets the potential misuse of public funds for luxury assets. If the allegations are proven, the findings could lead to legal action or the recovery of state funds used for inflated purchases.
A five-member [1] ad hoc committee was established in Benin City to lead the inquiry. The panel is tasked with examining the purchase of Lexus SUVs and Hilux trucks that occurred during Agbebaku’s tenure as speaker [2].
Investigators are focusing on whether the costs of these vehicles were intentionally inflated to divert government resources [3]. The committee is expected to complete its investigation and report its findings within two weeks [3].
Officials emphasized that the process would be conducted without bias. "The probe will be transparent, fair, and free from vendetta," a committee spokesperson said [1].
The assembly has not released the specific names of the five members appointed to the panel, but the body maintains that the inquiry will follow due process [1]. The investigation comes as the state government faces increasing pressure to ensure accountability in public spending across various legislative arms [2].
“The probe will be transparent, fair, and free from vendetta.”
This investigation reflects a broader effort within Edo State to address legislative corruption and procurement fraud. By targeting the inflation of vehicle costs—a common method for embezzling public funds in regional governments—the House of Assembly is attempting to signal a shift toward fiscal transparency and the rule of law.
