Few days to the inauguration of Edo State Governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo and hand over by the outgoing Governor, Godwin Obaseki, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has arrested the State Accountant-General, Julius Anelu, and four other officials said to be signatories to the State Government accounts.
It was gathered that the five State Government officials reportedly arrested on Thursday, are being held at the Benin City office of the anti-graft agency.
Sources say the officials were arrested apparently to forestall last minute withdrawals from accounts of the State Government following the budget allegedly approved by the Edo State House of Assembly about two weeks to the inauguration of the new administration.
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The sources say with the arrest, government activities have been halted, as the state was unable to pay emoluments due to civil servants, pensions, and other public servants.
They added that other statutory payments such as security bills and other obligations were also affected.
The sources explain that the Commission intend to keep the arrested officials till November 12, when the tenure of the outgoing administration would have ended.
EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale was yet to respond to calls when contacted for confirmation of the development.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
