EFCC Arrests Edo Govt Official Over Manhandling Of Naira
Tracy Ohovwore, Benin City
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Kelly Okungbowa (a.k.a. Ebo Stone), the suspended coordinator of the Edo State Public Safety Response Team (PSRT).
According to a statement by the anti-graft agency, Okungbowa was arrested on Monday, March 17, 2025, by EFFC operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate.
NewsnowNg reports that Okungbowa was apprehended after a viral video of him surfaced on the internet where he was seen spraying and mutilating the Naira at a bar on March 9, 2025. The EFCC then revealed in a statement that he would be arraigned in court as soon as investigations are completed.
“Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday March 17, 2025 arrested Kelly Okungbowa (a.k.a Ebo Stone) for alleged naira abuse.
According to the statement, “Okungbowa, who until recently was the coordinator of the Edo State Public Safety Response Team , PSRT, now suspended by the State Government, was arrested owing to a viral video where he was seen spraying and mutilating the Naira at a bar on March 9, 2025.
“He will be charged to court as soon as investigations are completed,” the statement reads.
Earlier, the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, had announced the indefinite suspension of the Public Safety Response Team (PSRT), which Kelly Okungbowa heads.
It was discovered that the suspension was followed by several complaints regarding the team’s conduct. It was also disclosed that some PSRT officers allegedly attempted to take control of a moving vehicle in the Ring Road area of Benin City.
This action resulted in the driver losing control, veering off the road, and crashing into a PoS kiosk, tragically leading to the death of a young girl.
According to the statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, it has been confirmed that the task force is suspended until further notice.
