Former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of financial misconduct totaling N700 billion.

Sources indicate that Emmanuel was taken into custody upon his arrival at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja around 12:30 pm on Tuesday. His arrest follows an invitation from the anti-graft agency concerning accusations of money laundering, fund diversion, and theft, as petitioned by the civil society group, Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NCAT).

According to EFCC insiders, the petition alleges that Emmanuel’s administration received N3 trillion from the Federation Account during his eight-year tenure, yet left behind a debt profile of N500 billion and abandoned projects worth N300 billion.

A financial audit of the state’s accounts reportedly uncovered discrepancies, with Emmanuel unable to account for N700 billion in public funds.

As of now, the EFCC has not issued an official statement regarding his arrest.