EFCC arrests Okpella monarch for alleged N250M community fund misappropriation and related fraud in Edo State

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested HRM Michael Sado, the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area, alongside Patrick Omkhagbo, over alleged fraudulent activities in Benin, Edo State, on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

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The arrests followed a petition filed by A. O. Osagie & Associates on behalf of the Ukhomuyo Council of Village Heads to the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Directorate.

The petition accused HRM Michael Sado of converting the Ukhomuniyo Community’s resources into personal accounts and breaching the Community Development Agreement between Okpella Cement Plc, a Dangote Cement subsidiary, and the host community.

The agreement, under section 116 of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007, stipulates that the community is entitled to N250 million annually.

According to the council, the monarch allegedly bypassed the agreement by opening a separate bank account under the name Okpella Community Development, over which he is the sole signatory.

The council also accused him of usurping constitutional powers, disrespecting the community, and threatening intra-communal conflict should the alleged financial improprieties be pursued.

EFCC sources confirmed the arrests, describing them as routine investigative measures.

The outcome of the interrogation will guide subsequent legal actions.

Weapons, financial records, and bank documents are reportedly under review as part of the investigation.

The Ukhomuyo Council of Village Heads emphasised that the alleged actions undermine lawful community governance and called for strict enforcement of accountability, warning that the behaviour of the monarch and any complicit corporate staff could escalate into broader social unrest.

The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to following due process, noting that arrests in response to verified petitions are part of ongoing efforts to safeguard public and community interests.

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The development highlights the need for robust oversight in the management of mineral-rich host communities in Nigeria.