Edo Community Protests Alleged Mismanagement of ₦15 Million Transformer Fund


 From Chris Akhabue Edo 

Residents of Uteh Ekoko in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State have appealed to the state government to intervene in an alleged diversion of funds raised for the purchase of a community transformer.

The call was made during a peaceful protest to the secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, where the aggrieved residents addressed journalists.

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Mr. Ifeanyi Aniodo alleged that households contributed ₦40,000 each, while some paid ₦80,000, bringing the total to over ₦15 million. He accused the Chairman of the Landlords Association, Mr. Henry Edo, and the Transformer Committee Chairman, Mr. Onwugbufor Celestine aka zion, of misappropriating the funds.

Aniodo further claimed that attempts to question the handling of the money led to residents being labeled as suspected cultists. He also alleged that Mr. Edo threatened to use his influence in government to demolish their homes over alleged cult-related activities.

According to him, the dispute has lingered for over a month, with the community demanding a bank statement to verify expenditures rather than the printed financial summary presented to them.

However responding, Mr. Henry Edo denied any wrongdoing, stating that due process was followed in procuring the transformer. He maintained that financial records were transparent and had been previously presented and accepted at a general meeting of the community.

Edo also alleged that he was assaulted and humiliated by some residents, describing the actions as victimisation.

Similarly, Mr. Onwugbufor Celestine denied the allegations, insisting that all financial records are available and accurate.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the NUJ Edo State Council, Dr. Festus Alenkhe, urged the protesters to remain peaceful in their pursuit of redress.

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