Governor Adeleke Calls Out EFCC Over Freeze of Osun State Account

Osun Governor Alleges Political Motive, Demands Immediate Reversal of Restriction                                                        

                                            

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has strongly criticised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the freezing of one of the state's bank accounts, accusing the anti-graft agency of attempting to interfere with the administration and destabilise governance ahead of the state's governorship election.

The governor described the account restriction as unjustified and politically motivated, insisting that the action could negatively affect government operations and the delivery of essential public services. 

Adeleke Raises Alarm

In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Governor Adeleke alleged that the EFCC's decision was part of a broader plan to frustrate his administration.

He argued that the timing of the account freeze, coming close to the governorship election, had raised legitimate concerns about possible political interference.

The governor called on the commission to immediately reverse the restriction, warning that withholding state funds could disrupt salary payments, infrastructure projects and other critical government programmes. 

Calls for Professionalism

Governor Adeleke urged the EFCC to remain neutral and carry out its constitutional responsibilities without allowing politics to influence its operations.

He maintained that his administration has remained committed to transparency and accountability and would continue to cooperate with lawful investigations conducted in accordance with due process.

The governor also appealed to residents of Osun State to remain calm, assuring them that his administration would pursue every legal avenue to protect the state's interests. 

EFCC Defends Its Action

The EFCC has defended the account restriction, explaining that it was imposed as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged suspicious financial transactions involving public funds.

According to the commission, the affected account was placed under a Post-No-Debit (PND) restriction to preserve funds while investigations continue.

The agency insists that the decision was based solely on intelligence and evidence gathered during its investigation and not on political considerations. 

Legal Battle Looms

The Osun State Government has indicated that it will challenge the account freeze through the courts if necessary.

Legal experts say the dispute is likely to test the balance between the EFCC's investigative powers and the constitutional protections afforded to state governments in managing public finances.

Public Attention Intensifies

The disagreement has attracted widespread public attention because of its timing ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State.

While the EFCC maintains that its investigation is purely law enforcement, Governor Adeleke insists that the agency's actions risk undermining democratic governance and public confidence.

As both parties maintain their positions, the outcome of the legal and investigative processes is expected to shape the next phase of the controversy.