Osun State governorship election faces tension over EFCC account freeze

Osun State is preparing for a governorship election on Saturday, with approximately 2.34 million registered voters expected to participate. The race features 14 candidates, primarily a contest between incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party and Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress. Other notable contenders include the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, which is viewed as a potential third force due to the influence of Rauf Aregbesola.

Political tensions have escalated following the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) placing a ‘Post-No-Debit’ order on a state government account at First Bank. The EFCC stated the move is part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged fraudulent handling of approximately N11 billion in ecology, intervention, and Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds. The agency reported noticing large, suspicious transfers to various corporate entities.

Governor Adeleke has characterized the freeze as politically motivated, suggesting it aims to prevent the government from providing palliatives to civil servants. Legal experts and state officials have also raised questions regarding the constitutional authority and due process of the EFCC’s actions without a court order. The election occurs amidst reports of political violence and heightened scrutiny of the state's financial management.