Picnews
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of ordering the restriction of a state government account with a commercial bank, just days before the August 15 governorship election.
The governor alleged that the account, which is reportedly used for the payment of workers’ salaries, was placed under a “Post No Debit” restriction by the anti-graft agency.
The claim followed an earlier statement by the Osun State Government expressing concerns over an alleged plan by the EFCC to freeze the accounts of the state government and some senior officials.
Speaking on the development, Adeleke said the state government was informed by its bank that the EFCC had issued a directive to restrict access to the account without obtaining a court order.
According to the governor, such action undermines democratic principles and the constitutional rights of state governments.
He called on the EFCC Chairman to provide explanations and evidence behind the decision, warning that interference with the finances of a sub-national government could pose a threat to democratic governance.
Adeleke also disclosed that several state government officials had been invited by the EFCC for questioning as part of ongoing investigations but insisted that the agency had not established any wrongdoing against the administration.
He maintained that his government had remained committed to transparency and accountability in managing public resources.
The Osun State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwole Jimi-Bada, also faulted the alleged restriction, arguing that the EFCC does not have unilateral authority to freeze or interfere with a state government’s statutory account.
He stated that the funds in the account were meant for essential government responsibilities, including payment of salaries, pensions, healthcare, education, security and other public services, adding that any restriction on such funds should be determined by a competent court.
Meanwhile, the state Commissioner for Finance, Adeola Ogungbile, dismissed claims that government activities were being financed through limited statutory allocations, insisting that Governor Adeleke’s re-election campaign was based on the administration’s achievements and public support.
The EFCC has not yet issued an official statement regarding the allegations or confirmed whether any restriction was placed on the account.
The development comes ahead of the August 15 Osun State governorship election, where Governor Adeleke is seeking a second term in office.
