The Legislative Council of Ezinihite Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State has suspended its vice chairman, Matthew Igbokwe, indefinitely following allegations linking him to robbery and involvement in a car theft syndicate in Lagos State.
Igbokwe was reportedly arrested last week by operatives of the Lagos State Police Command over alleged participation in a network accused of stealing and dismantling vehicles for resale.
His suspension came after the council issued him a seven-day notice of impeachment before proceeding with disciplinary action.
The Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, had earlier confirmed that the council official was under investigation in connection with robbery-related offences and other criminal allegations.
Announcing the decision on Monday, April 13, 2026, the Ezinihite Mbaise Legislative Council said the suspension was based on allegations of misconduct, including persistent absence from official duties, unauthorised trips outside Imo State, and his reported arrest by the police in Lagos.
The council further stated that the development had brought embarrassment to the local government administration, the Imo State Government led by Governor Hope Uzodimma, and the people of Ezinihite Mbaise.
The motion for suspension was moved by the Chief Whip, Ajaa Echezolachi (Onicha Ward IV), and seconded by the Deputy Leader, Steven Echeta (Eziudo Ward 8), before being unanimously adopted by councillors present.
The Leader of the Council, Mbechi Benson, said the decision was necessary to safeguard the integrity of the local government and preserve public confidence in its leadership.
She added that the action was taken in line with the provisions of the Imo State Local Government Administration Law No. 6 of 2022 (as amended).
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command had last week announced the dismantling of a car theft syndicate operating across parts of the state, confirming that Igbokwe was among those arrested during the operation.
In a related development, the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, calling for a comprehensive and independent investigation into the allegations surrounding the embattled vice chairman.