Just In: EFCC Allegedly Arrests Edo State Govt Officials

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has allegedly arrested some Edo State government officials who are signatories to the state government accounts.

Sources told Naija News on Friday that about five officials, including the Accountant General of Edo State, are being held at the Benin office of the anti-graft agency.

The sources revealed that the government officials were said to have been arrested on Thursday after they had been called in for briefing.

“With the arrest, government activities have been halted, as the state is unable to pay emoluments due to civil servants, pensions, and other public servants, throwing the state into chaos. Other statutory payments such as security bills and other obligations are also affected,” the source said.

The source disclosed that the EFCC plan to keep the arrested officials till November 12, on the day of the termination of the tenure of the outgoing Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki.

Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has advised Edo State’s incoming governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to avoid probing the administration of outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki.

Naija News reports that Ganduje offered this advise during Okpebholo’s courtesy visit to the APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) on Thursday.

Ganduje encouraged Okpebholo to prioritize delivering good governance once he assumes office, suggesting a forward-focused approach.

“The ideals of democracy were upheld, the election was executed, and we are on the winning side. You should not focus on the previous administration. Look forward, don’t look back, and don’t waste your time fighting the person you took over from,” Ganduje remarked.

He emphasized that a “progressive government” does not dwell on the past but moves ahead.

He advised Okpebholo to adhere to the party’s manifesto, aiming for socio-economic progress and building bridges with stakeholders.

“Focus on the manifesto you painstakingly produced, follow it to the letter. Think forward and be an action governor,” he added, recalling Okpebholo’s energetic campaign style, which he believes will make Edo proud.