The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Edo State’s Accountant General, Julius Anelu, along with four government officials just 12 days before Governor Godwin Obaseki’s term concludes. The arrests, carried out at the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Office, have reportedly disrupted the state’s financial operations, affecting salaries, pensions, and other essential payments.
A source close to the investigation revealed that these officials, signatories to Edo State’s accounts, were detained over allegations related to the state’s financial transactions. “Civil servant salaries, pensions, and other statutory payments have been halted due to this arrest,” stated a source familiar with the matter.
The EFCC, which has not yet confirmed the arrests publicly, intends to hold the officials until November 12, Governor Obaseki’s final day in office. Efforts to reach EFCC representatives for comments were largely unsuccessful, with national spokesperson Dele Oyewale requesting questions via text but declining to provide additional details.
As the investigation progresses, concerns grow over how the arrests may impact governance and public service delivery in Edo State.
