Anti-Graft Agency Says Action Aimed at Protecting Public Funds as Investigation Continues 
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed that it froze an Osun State Government bank account as part of an ongoing financial investigation, stating that the action was taken to prevent the alleged diversion of public funds.
The commission said the affected account was placed under a Post-No-Debit (PND) restriction after investigators uncovered what it described as suspicious movements of government funds into multiple accounts.
According to the EFCC, the restriction is a lawful investigative measure designed to preserve funds while inquiries continue.
EFCC Explains Reason for Action
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the commission said intelligence gathered during its investigation revealed transactions that required immediate intervention.
The agency stated that freezing the account was necessary "to save public funds from being looted" while investigators determine the nature of the transactions.
The EFCC stressed that its action was carried out in accordance with the powers granted under the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.
Investigation Ongoing
The commission said the account freeze forms part of a broader investigation into financial activities involving the Osun State Government.
Officials declined to provide further operational details, explaining that doing so could compromise the investigation.
The EFCC maintained that the restriction does not amount to a final determination of wrongdoing but is intended to preserve evidence and safeguard public resources pending the outcome of the investigation.
Osun Government Challenges Decision
The Osun State Government has criticised the account freeze, describing it as unlawful and politically motivated.
Governor Ademola Adeleke had earlier alleged that the commission was planning to freeze the state's accounts ahead of the forthcoming governorship election, while state officials have indicated that legal steps are being taken to challenge the EFCC's action in court.
EFCC Insists It Is Non-Partisan
Responding to the criticism, the commission rejected allegations of political interference.
The EFCC stated that its operations are guided solely by law and evidence, adding that several states remain under financial scrutiny as part of its mandate to promote accountability and transparency in the management of public funds.
The agency reiterated that it remains committed to protecting public resources regardless of political affiliations or election timelines.
Legal Process Expected
The account restriction is expected to remain in effect while investigations continue, unless altered by a competent court.
Both the EFCC and the Osun State Government are expected to present their positions through the legal process as the matter continues to attract national attention, particularly with the state's governorship election approaching.