The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly frozen an Osun State Government account domiciled with First Bank, just 10 days before the state’s governorship election.
The affected account, reportedly used for the payment of workers’ salaries, was placed on Post No Debit (PND) status, preventing withdrawals and other debit transactions.
Adeleke Alleges Attempt to Disrupt Government
The development came hours after Governor Ademola Adeleke alleged that the EFCC was planning to freeze the state’s accounts and those of senior government officials.
In a statement issued through the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the governor described the reported action as an attempt to disrupt government activities ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Adeleke also argued that the anti-graft agency lacks the legal authority to freeze the accounts of a state government.
Government Confirms Account Restriction
A source close to the governor confirmed that the account had been placed under restriction and disclosed that Adeleke would address the public on the matter.
The account is said to play a key role in the state’s salary payment system, raising concerns over possible disruptions if the restriction remains in place.
EFCC Yet to Comment
As of the time of filing this report, the EFCC had not released an official statement on the development, and the reason for placing the account on Post No Debit status remained unclear.
The incident comes amid heightened political activities in Osun State as parties intensify campaigns ahead of the governorship election.
