The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has placed former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki on its watch list as it launches an investigation into various transactions, including contracts awarded during his time in office.
Sources within the commission reveal that Obaseki’s administration is under scrutiny, with a team of investigators working to uncover details surrounding these transactions. While the majority of these deals have not been directly linked to Obaseki, the commission is pursuing leads in hopes of discovering substantial evidence.
One insider stated, “An investigation into his administration has begun. We can’t invite him for questioning until the investigation reaches a certain point. A dedicated team of investigators is examining the transactions, including contracts awarded during his tenure.
“The majority of these transactions cannot be directly traced to him. He relied on others to manage these deals. We have been following various leads and hope to gather significant information.”
Another source indicated that all former governors, including Godwin Obaseki, are routinely placed on the commission’s watch list.
“All former governors are consistently monitored by the commission, regardless of whether there are specific allegations against them. We won’t allow them to leave the country and evade accountability. That’s why we keep them on our watch list,” the source explained.
Obaseki, who resigned as governor on November 12 after eight years in office, had previously warned that the EFCC intended to arrest him shortly after he stepped down. However, he has expressed his willingness to cooperate with the agency and clarify the matters concerning his administration.
Meanwhile, Obaseki’s successor, Governor Monday Okpebholo, announced the formation of a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee on Sunday to investigate the activities during Obaseki’s tenure.
