With less than 11 days until Governor Godwin Obaseki hands over power to the Governor-elect, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended the State Accountant General, Mr. Julius O. Anelu, along with four other officials who are signatories to the state government accounts.
Reports indicate that the five officials were arrested on Thursday and are currently being detained at the EFCC’s Benin office.
The arrests appear to be a preemptive measure against potential last-minute withdrawals from the state account, especially following a budget that was allegedly approved by the Edo State House of Assembly just two weeks before the new government’s inauguration.
Sources reveal that the arrests have effectively stalled government operations, leaving the state unable to pay salaries for civil servants, pensions, and other public employees. Additionally, critical payments, including security bills and other obligations, have also been disrupted.
The commission reportedly intends to hold the detained officials until November 12, the date marking the end of the outgoing government’s tenure.
As of the time of this report, the Commission is yet to issue any statement on the arrests.
