Alleged Theft of Foreign Currency Rocks Deputy Governor’s Office in Nasarawa State
The Office of the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State has found itself embroiled in an alleged theft scandal involving an undisclosed amount of foreign currency, as reported by DAILY POST.
Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, the Deputy Governor, has reportedly issued a stern ultimatum for the return of the stolen funds, believed to be equivalent to N20 million. The incident allegedly implicates two security aides and a Protocol Officer in the deputy governor’s office.
A reliable source within the deputy governor’s inner circle, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the stolen amount in foreign currency was purportedly left in a bag at the deputy governor’s office following a meeting involving three companies engaged in a mining rights dispute over sites in Nasarawa Local Government Area.
It is suspected that the security aides and the protocol officer colluded to pilfer the funds and subsequently divided it among themselves. The security aides purportedly utilized the stolen funds to acquire a vehicle and a motorcycle, while the protocol officer reportedly purchased a house with his share, which totalled N3.5 million.
The foreign currency in question is said to be the property of foreign investors who have demonstrated interest in Lithium mining in Nasarawa State. The decision to leave the money at the deputy governor’s office after the meeting has raised concerns, with speculation arising that it may have been an attempt to implicate the deputy governor in a bribery scandal.
Upon becoming aware of the alleged theft, Akabe initiated an independent investigation, which reportedly confirmed the involvement of the three individuals. The suspects have purportedly confessed to the crime and have been given an ultimatum to return the stolen funds in dollars, with the intention of returning it to the rightful owner – the foreign investors involved in the Lithium mining project.
The matter is currently under the jurisdiction of the relevant security authorities, and it has been reported that the suspects are affiliated with the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
As the investigation unfolds, the Deputy Governor’s office is confronting unparalleled scrutiny and upheaval due to the alleged theft. The conclusion of this incident will undoubtedly have profound repercussions and may expose deeper issues within the office and its associated dealings.
