Less than 11 days before the scheduled handover from the outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki to Governor-elect Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended the Edo State Accountant General, Mr. Julius O. Anelu, along with four other high-ranking officials of the state government. These individuals, identified as signatories to the state accounts, were reportedly detained on Thursday at the EFCC's Benin office.
According to sources, the arrests aim to prevent any last-minute withdrawals from the state accounts following a recently approved budget by the Edo State House of Assembly. This budget, allegedly authorized approximately two weeks before the impending inauguration of the new government, has raised concerns about potential misuse of funds before the transition.
The detainment of these officials has led to a suspension of critical state functions. Essential financial disbursements, including the salaries of civil servants, pensions, and other payments due to public servants, are reportedly halted. Additionally, the delay is affecting statutory obligations, such as security expenses and other vital payments, further straining state operations.
Sources close to the EFCC suggest that the agency intends to keep the officials in custody until November 12, the day Governor Obaseki’s administration is set to conclude. The arrests underscore the EFCC's commitment to monitoring the use of state funds during the transitional period and ensuring accountability within the public sector.
Attempts to reach the EFCC’s spokesperson in Edo State, Williams Oseghale, were redirected to the Commission's Public Relations Officer, Dele Oyewale. While contacted for a statement, Oyewale requested that queries be sent via text. However, as of the time of reporting, Oyewale had yet to respond to messages sent to both his WhatsApp and SMS lines.
The situation continues to develop as the state prepares for the transition to a new administration, with implications for financial and operational stability across Edo State.
