The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has received a petition from the Igala Youth Council, IYC and coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Kogi State over what they described as a massive diversion of local government funds through the controversial Lokoja Voucher Scheme.
The protesters, led by the President of the Igala Youth Council, Comrade Onogu Collins, stormed the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, and were received by the Commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Mr. Dele Oyewale, who acknowledged their concerns and assured that the petition would be transmitted to the appropriate department for review.
Speaking during the presentation of the petition, Collins, said their investigations uncovered “systematic and shocking discrepancies” in allocations and expenditures across Local Government Areas in the state.”
“We have a responsibility to speak out when public funds meant for development, workers’ welfare and community progress are allegedly diverted,” he stated.
According to the petition, preliminary findings from Dekina, Yagba East and Adavi Local Government Areas show between 76% and 84% of annual allocations unaccounted for between 2024 and 2025, describing the figures as “clear red flags that demand an immediate forensic audit.”
The protesters are demanding an independent audit of all Kogi local government allocations from 2024 to date, immediate investigation and prosecution of individuals found culpable, and unrestricted access to statutory funds by elected council chairmen.
“We want transparency. We want accountability. The people of Kogi State deserve to know how their money is being used,” they added.
Responding on behalf of the EFCC, Oyewale commended the groups for following due process and assured them that the Commission is committed to its mandate.
“Your petition will be appropriately documented and forwarded for necessary attention,” he said, urging citizens to continue reporting credible cases of financial wrongdoing.
