Benin City, Nigeria – November 2, 2024 – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Edo State’s Accountant General, Julius Anelu, along with two other government officials. This action follows allegations of large withdrawals from the state’s derivation account as the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki comes to a close.
Reports indicate that the EFCC is investigating claims of significant financial misconduct within the Obaseki administration. Senator Monday Okpebholo recently accused the governor’s office of engaging in “last-minute borrowings and looting” as the administration prepares to hand over power.
According to a source within the EFCC, a total of 24.6 billion naira was deposited into the state’s account, but only a week later, approximately 14 billion naira remained. The source stated, “To save the state, we had to quickly move,” referring to the urgency of the situation. They emphasized that the EFCC’s actions are not intended to disrupt state functions.
As of now, the EFCC has not released an official statement regarding the arrests. Earlier in October, Philip Shaibu, the reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, raised alarms about alleged plans by Governor Obaseki to misappropriate state funds. During a press conference in Benin City, Shaibu claimed he had received evidence of possible looting and urged the EFCC and other relevant agencies to investigate.
The ongoing investigation comes amid broader concerns about financial integrity within the state’s government. Observers will be watching closely to see how this situation develops in the days leading up to the end of Governor Obaseki’s tenure.
