By Mercy Peter
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has alleged that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is planning to freeze the bank accounts of the Osun State Government and key officials of his administration ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
The governor, who described the alleged move as unconstitutional and politically motivated, said his administration had received what he termed “credible reports” indicating that the anti-graft agency had concluded plans to place restrictions on all state government accounts, as well as the personal accounts of senior government functionaries.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, Adeleke warned that any attempt to freeze the state’s accounts would cripple governance, disrupt the delivery of essential public services and undermine the democratic process just days before the governorship poll.
According to the governor, the alleged action is aimed at paralysing the operations of the state government at a critical period when it is expected to continue providing services to residents and preparing for the forthcoming election.
He argued that there is no legal justification for such a move, insisting that the EFCC lacks the constitutional authority to freeze the accounts of a state government.
The governor maintained that any attempt to take such action would amount to a violation of constitutional principles and an abuse of power, urging relevant authorities to ensure that democratic institutions are not used in ways that could threaten the conduct of a free and fair election.
Adeleke said his administration remains committed to upholding the rule of law and carrying out its constitutional responsibilities despite what he described as attempts to frustrate the government.
He called on the people of Osun State to remain calm and vigilant, assuring them that his government would continue to defend the interests of the state through lawful means.
