The Edo State government has sharply criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for detaining the state’s Accountant General, Julius Anelu, and three other officials, labeling it a deliberate attempt to disrupt governance. The officials were reportedly detained over a loan matter, which the state claims has already been repaid, arguing that their detention lacks sufficient justification.

In a statement from Benin on Saturday, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation Chris Osa Nehikhare recounted that on October 28, 2024, the EFCC issued an invitation to four state officials, including Anelu, requesting their presence at the commission’s Benin office. The inquiry reportedly focused on loans and agricultural interventions provided to the Edo government by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) since 2018.

According to Nehikhare, the officials cooperated fully, answering the EFCC’s questions. However, after learning that one of the invited officials no longer held signing authority on government accounts, the EFCC released that individual but detained a replacement official who currently holds signatory powers.

Nehikhare alleged that the EFCC’s actions are an attempt to “incapacitate governance” in Edo State, claiming the detentions seem aimed at stalling the administration until November 12, the last day of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s tenure. He warned that essential state services might be hindered starting November 4 due to the officials’ detention, potentially impacting the government’s ability to meet its obligations.

“This unjust action is condemnable,” Nehikhare stated, urging the EFCC to prioritize democracy, justice, and peace by releasing the detained officials to prevent instability in Edo State.

He added that the Obaseki administration, which concludes on November 12, has upheld transparency and accountability throughout its term. “Any attempt to obstruct its operations during this critical period undermines constitutional governance,” Nehikhare emphasized.