In a significant development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained the Accountant General of Edo State, Mr. Julius O. Anelu, along with four other senior officials just days before Governor Godwin Obaseki’s tenure concludes.
Reports reveal that the five officials, who are signatories to the state’s financial accounts, were taken into custody on Thursday, October 31, 2024, and are currently held at the EFCC’s Benin office. The arrests come less than two weeks before Senator Monday Okpebholo is set to assume office as the newly elected governor.
Sources indicate that this move aims to prevent potential unauthorized financial withdrawals from state accounts amid recent budget approvals by the Edo State House of Assembly. Allegedly, the budget was passed just two weeks before the new administration’s scheduled inauguration, raising concerns over possible last-minute transactions.
The arrests have reportedly impacted government operations, as key payments—such as salaries, pensions, and security allowances—have been delayed due to the absence of authorized officials to facilitate these transactions. Civil servants and other public workers are experiencing disruptions in their monthly entitlements, while critical bills remain unpaid.
According to an anonymous source, the EFCC plans to detain the officials until November 12, the day Governor Obaseki’s administration officially concludes. This timeline aligns with the end of the current government, potentially signaling an extended hold on state funds until the new administration takes office.
When contacted, EFCC’s Edo State spokesman, Williams Oseghale, redirected inquiries to the agency’s Public Relations Officer, Dele Oyewale, without further comment.
As the handover date approaches, the arrests have intensified focus on the management of Edo State’s finances during the transition, adding a complex layer to the changeover process.
