A coalition of civil society organizations and the Igala Youth Council has taken decisive action against alleged massive financial misconduct in Kogi State's local government system.
Petition Submitted to Anti-Graft Agency
On Wednesday, November 28, 2025, the groups formally submitted a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) detailing what they described as systematic diversion of local government allocations through the controversial Lokoja Voucher Scheme.
The petition was received by Mr. Dele Oyewale, EFCC's Head of Media and Publicity, who assured the delegation that their concerns would be transmitted to the appropriate department for immediate review and action.
Shocking Financial Discrepancies Uncovered
Speaking during the petition presentation in Abuja, Comrade Onogu Collins, President of Igala Youth Council and leader of the protesters, revealed that their investigations uncovered systematic and shocking discrepancies in allocations and expenditures across Kogi's local government areas.
"We have a responsibility to speak out when public funds meant for development, workers' welfare and community progress are allegedly diverted," Collins stated emphatically.
The petition contained alarming preliminary findings from three local government areas:
- Dekina Local Government: Significant portions of annual allocations unaccounted for
- Yagba East Local Government: Massive financial irregularities discovered
- Adavi Local Government: Clear evidence of fund mismanagement
Between 76% and 84% of annual allocations from 2024 to 2025 remain unaccounted for in these areas, representing what the groups called "clear red flags that demand an immediate forensic audit."
Demands for Transparency and Accountability
The coalition presented three key demands to the EFCC:
- An independent forensic audit of all Kogi local government allocations from 2024 to date
- Immediate investigation and prosecution of individuals found culpable in the alleged diversion
- Unrestricted access to statutory funds by elected council chairmen without interference
"We want transparency. We want accountability. The people of Kogi State deserve to know how their money is being used," the groups emphasized during the presentation.
EFCC Response and Commitment
Responding on behalf of the anti-corruption commission, Mr. Dele Oyewale commended the civil society organizations for following due process in bringing forward their concerns.
"Your petition will be appropriately documented and forwarded for necessary attention," Oyewale assured, while reaffirming the Commission's commitment to its mandate of fighting financial crimes.
The EFCC spokesman also urged citizens to continue reporting credible cases of financial wrongdoing, emphasizing the importance of public participation in the fight against corruption.
This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing scrutiny of local government finances in Kogi State and puts pressure on authorities to address long-standing concerns about fund management at the grassroots level.
