EFCC Freezes Osun Account as political tension rises before the governorship election, with Adeleke accusing the agency of disrupting state operations.
The EFCC Freezes Osun Account controversy has created fresh tension in Osun State. The development comes less than two weeks before the August 15 governorship election.
Reports claim that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) restricted access to a bank account belonging to the Osun State Government.
The affected account is reportedly domiciled with First Bank. Sources said the EFCC placed it under a Post No Debit status. This means withdrawals and other debit transactions cannot take place.
The EFCC Freezes Osun Account report emerged shortly after Governor Ademola Adeleke raised concerns about a possible account restriction. The governor had earlier accused the anti-graft agency of planning to freeze state funds.
Sources familiar with the matter said the account was used to pay workers’ salaries. The reported action has raised concerns about government operations ahead of the election.
Governor Adeleke reacted through a statement from the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi. He described the alleged move as an attempt to disrupt his administration.
The governor said there was no legal reason to freeze the state government’s accounts. He also argued that the EFCC lacked the authority to take such action against a state government.
Adeleke maintained that the timing of the action was suspicious. He said it could affect the smooth running of government activities before residents cast their votes.
The EFCC Freezes Osun Account issue has added to the political tension already surrounding the election. The state has witnessed heated exchanges between political groups in recent weeks.
A source close to the governor later confirmed that the account had been restricted. The source spoke anonymously because he was not authorised to comment publicly.
“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 EFCC has not released an official statement on the matter at the time of this report. The agency’s response is expected to clarify the reason behind the reported action.
As the election draws closer, the EFCC Freezes Osun Account controversy is likely to remain a major political issue. Many residents are watching closely as both sides present their positions.
