Edo State Government Raises Concerns of Political Undermining
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained several high-ranking officials from the Edo State government following their invitation for questioning, drawing public criticism and accusations of politically motivated interference.
The EFCC invited key officials, including Edo State Accountant General Julius O. Anelu, alongside Martina Osasu-Uwoghiren, Adaghe Anthony, and Okhomina Godwin, to its Benin office. These officials were called to provide information regarding loans and agricultural intervention funds extended to Edo State by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) from 2018 onward.
This invitation, dated October 28, 2024, addressed to the Secretary to the State Government, specifically focused on inquiries about an agricultural loan facility, which the Edo State government asserts has already been fully repaid.
Upon attending the EFCC office on Thursday, officials were detained despite compliance with the invitation, with additional personnel detained after being identified as current signatories to government accounts, even though some were not initially included in the summons.
According to a statement issued by Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare, the state believes these actions represent a deliberate attempt to disrupt governance in the state as the current administration nears the end of its tenure.
Commissioner Nehikhare voiced strong opposition to the detentions, condemning them as attempts to destabilize Edo State’s government and undermine democratic processes. He argued that the detentions aim to delay administrative functions and prevent the government from fulfilling its responsibilities during its remaining tenure, which concludes on November 12, 2024.
“This government, led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, prides itself on transparency and accountability. Actions by the EFCC appear to be targeting Edo State with intentions that risk serious implications for democracy and peace in the region,” Nehikhare said in his statement. He called for the immediate release of the detained officials to allow continued governmental operations, warning that their prolonged detention could “ground essential services and obligations.”
The Edo State government is urging the EFCC to respect democratic principles, act in the public interest, and avoid unconstitutional actions that could precipitate unrest. This development has drawn national attention, with many looking to the EFCC for clarification and assurance that its actions remain in alignment with justice and due process.
