The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently made headlines in Edo State by arresting the State Accountant-General, Julius O. Anelu, along with four other officials who handle the state’s finances. This development comes with less than two weeks until the outgoing Governor, Godwin Obaseki, is set to hand over to Governor-elect Sen. Monday Okpebholo. Here’s a closer look at the situation and what it could mean for the state.

Reports indicate that the EFCC detained the Accountant-General and four other key government officials on Thursday, and they are currently held at the EFCC’s Benin office. The detained individuals are reportedly signatories on the state government accounts, giving them significant influence over state funds and financial transactions.

Sources suggest that the arrests are a preventative measure to block any last-minute withdrawals from state accounts. This move is said to be linked to a budget recently approved by the Edo State House of Assembly, just two weeks before the new administration’s swearing-in. The EFCC’s intervention aims to ensure a smooth transition by safeguarding public funds.

The arrests have reportedly stalled several government operations, including payments of salaries, pensions, and other allowances to civil servants. This interruption has caused concern among public workers, as statutory payments for services, including security, have also been affected.

According to insider sources, the EFCC intends to keep the officials in custody until November 12, the final day of the current administration’s term. This strategy may be part of an effort to prevent any unauthorized financial activities during the transition period.

Efforts to reach EFCC representatives for official comments have yielded minimal results. Williams Oseghale, the EFCC’s spokesperson in Edo State, directed questions to Dele Oyewale, the Commission’s Public Relations Officer. However, despite several attempts via WhatsApp and SMS, Oyewale has yet to respond.