Aggrieved members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Lagos State Chapter, have petitioned the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), seeking an investigation into alleged financial irregularities within the union’s state leadership.
In a petition submitted to the anti-graft agency, the concerned members raised allegations of financial misconduct involving the leadership of the Lagos State chapter, particularly in relation to the handling of union funds.
According to the petition, the union’s state chairman was accused of authorising multiple financial transactions allegedly carried out without the approval or knowledge of the State Executive Council.
The petitioners claimed that substantial sums were transferred from the union’s official bank account into private and third-party accounts, a development they said raised concerns about transparency and accountability.
The aggrieved members further alleged that the transactions were carried out repeatedly and without proper documentation, prompting suspicions of financial impropriety.
They maintained that the pattern of transfers warranted a thorough investigation by the EFCC.
The petition also drew attention to a ₦65 million loan facility reportedly obtained in the name of the union.
According to the petitioners, the funds were allegedly moved into various accounts shortly after disbursement, with no clear explanation provided to union members on how the money was utilised.
In addition, the petition highlighted concerns over funds reportedly allocated for union projects, including the acquisition of properties in areas such as Badagry and Ebute Metta in Lagos.
The petitioners claimed that no verifiable documents or records were presented to substantiate the transactions, raising further questions about the management of the funds.
The members also alleged that increased revenue accruing to the union following the implementation of the new minimum wage, as well as arrears paid between November 2024 and January 2025, had not been properly accounted for.
They argued that the lack of detailed financial disclosure to members amounted to serious financial irregularities.
Citing provisions of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act and the Criminal Law of Lagos State, the petitioners contended that the issues raised bordered on criminal conversion, breach of trust and related financial offences.
They urged the EFCC to carry out what they described as a thorough, impartial and discreet investigation into the allegations, stressing the need for accountability and transparency within the union’s affairs.
The petitioners expressed confidence in the EFCC’s mandate to investigate financial crimes and called for appropriate action should the allegations be substantiated.
