Besieged county official extorting business owners plans to quit

A LEADING COUNTY official, who has been in the spotlight for alleged involvement in dubious dealings, is now contemplating quitting. Insiders say the man is considering the move after learning that his superior plan to kick him out of his position. The boss is reportedly irritated by the numerous complaints from residents and the business community, who continue to visit his office with grievances about the man’s behaviour. It is understood that the man has exploited his office, sometimes using his boss’s name, to extort money from business owners and potential contractors.

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AN MP AND his spanner boy operating in one of the cities in the country are reportedly under scrutiny by the anti-graft agency. Reason? The two are said to be involved in an extortion ring targeting foreign nationals residing in the country. In recent years, they have been allegedly exposed for intimidating and demanding millions from foreigners. However, it has emerged that they have continued unabated, drawing the attention of the anti-graft agency. Corridors understands that it is only a matter of time before the two are arrested.

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A GOVERNOR FROM a far-flung county has come down hard on a senior government officer for allegedly refusing to follow his directives. The county leader has been pushing the officer to engage in illegal activities, reportedly for personal gain. However, the officer has declined, sparking the governor’s anger during a public appearance. The county leader has been sharply criticising the officer on political podiums. At one point, he called on Parliament to initiate the removal of the officer from office, citing incompetence and bureaucratic delays in the officer’s department.

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AND WHAT PROMPTED an aide of a powerful state official to intervene in defence of a beleaguered civil servant? Sources whisper that the aide, known to wield considerable clout behind the scenes, personally stepped in to shield the officer from ambitious politicians who were eager to push him out. Those familiar with the matter say the aide and the officer share a close relationship, which explains the bold move. However, the aide’s actions have irked several political players who had been plotting the officer’s downfall.