The Edo State Government has suspended two top officials: the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, and the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani.

The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Ikhilor, announced their suspension on Thursday morning, February 6.

According to Ikhilor, the suspension is due to serious allegations of official misconduct and financial irregularities.

“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that the Governor, Monday Okpebholo has approved the suspension from office of the Chairman of Edo Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie over allegations of grave official and financial infractions.

“The suspension is with immediate effect. Consequently, the governor has ordered the setting up of an Investigative Committee to investigate the allegations levelled against them and make appropriate recommendations accordingly.

“The suspension of Osagie and Lawani became necessary to enable the Government carry out a thorough investigation into the allegation of financial infractions levelled against them. “The suspension is pending the conclusion of the investigation,” he said.

The suspension will remain in place until an investigation into these allegations is completed.

This decision comes just a few months after both officials were appointed to their roles.