Benin, Edo – In a bold move to restore accountability and overhaul grassroots governance, the Edo State Government has suspended all 18 Heads of Local Government Administration (HoLGAs) across the state's local councils.

The decision, announced on Wednesday, stems from an audit uncovering widespread irregularities, including hundreds of unverified personnel records that have strained public resources and eroded trust in local administration.

Alhaji Kabiru Adjoto, Chairman of the Edo State Local Government Service Commission, disclosed the suspensions during a press briefing in Benin City.

"One of the decisions we have taken is the directive to all local government administration HoLGAs to proceed on compulsory leave with immediate effect," Adjoto stated, emphasizing the need to address systemic issues plaguing the councils.

The affected officials have been ordered to hand over to their respective Directors of Administrative and General Services, ensuring continuity in operations while investigations proceed.

The suspensions follow a comprehensive review initiated by Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration, which has prioritized transparency since taking office.

Sources within the commission revealed to Daily South Nigeria that the audit exposed discrepancies in staff rosters, ghost workers, and unauthorized expenditures totaling millions of naira.

"These irregularities have been costing the state dearly, diverting funds meant for essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure," Adjoto added.

In a related development, the HoLGA and Director of Finance in Etsako West Local Government have been placed on compulsory leave and formally interdicted pending the outcome of petitions alleging misconduct.

Similarly, officials in Akoko-Edo Local Government face heightened scrutiny over separate complaints of financial impropriety.