EFCC Investigates Local Government Chairmen Over Funds

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a nationwide investigation into the financial activities of all 774 local government chairmen in Nigeria. This probe focuses on the management and expenditure of public funds following the councils' financial autonomy granted by the Supreme Court in July 2024.

The investigation aims to assess how the chairmen have utilized allocated funds and whether these resources have led to meaningful grassroots development. The EFCC is examining financial decisions, expenditure records, and accountability levels of the council administrations.

The investigation is being conducted discreetly by the EFCC’s zonal directorates across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Reports indicate that local government chairmen in some states are already under scrutiny for their handling of council funds.

The EFCC seeks to determine the impact of financial independence on local governance and whether the councils have demonstrated the necessary managerial skills and integrity since the Supreme Court ruling.