The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly frozen one of the Osun State Government’s operational bank accounts, less than two weeks before the August 15 governorship election.
The account, domiciled with First Bank, was placed under a “Post No Debit” restriction, according to a document cited by Vanguard. The account is said to be among those used by the state government for salary payments and other official transactions.
The development came shortly after Governor Ademola Adeleke alleged that the anti-corruption agency was planning to freeze the state’s accounts as well as those of top government officials.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the governor condemned the reported action, describing it as an attempt to undermine the administration and disrupt governance ahead of the election.
He maintained that the EFCC has no constitutional or legal authority to freeze the accounts of a state government without due process.
A government source, who requested anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the matter, confirmed that the restriction had taken effect.
“I can confirm that the state government account has been frozen by the EFCC. It is no longer an allegation. The governor will address the press shortly to update the public on the situation,” the source said.
The source disclosed that the affected account is one of the government’s key operational accounts and plays a vital role in the payment of salaries and the execution of government activities.
The reported freezing of the account comes amid heightened political activities in Osun State as parties prepare for the governorship election. Political observers say the development may further fuel political tension if not promptly clarified.
The EFCC had not issued an official response to the allegation at the time this report was filed.
