Morganable politics/Public Office
Gov Adeleke described the development as a violation of constitutional provisions and warned that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democratic system
kaNo —
Tension has heightened between the Osun State Government and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following the freezing of the state’s bank accounts, a move Governor Ademola Adeleke has strongly condemned as illegal and politically motivated.
Speaking to journalists at the Government House in Osogbo on Wednesday, Adeleke challenged the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, to publicly explain the rationale behind the directive, which he said was issued without a court order.
The governor described the development as a violation of constitutional provisions and warned that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democratic system.
According to Adeleke, the state government received a formal notification from its banker, First Bank of Nigeria, indicating that the EFCC had placed a “post no debit” instruction on its accounts. The directive effectively restricts any withdrawals or financial transactions from the accounts, raising concerns about the state’s ability to carry out its obligations.
“This action was taken without any court order. We are supposed to be in a democracy where the rule of law must prevail,” Adeleke said. “We will not accept a situation where federal agencies trample on the constitutional rights of subnational governments.”
He accused his predecessor, Gboyega Oyetola, of orchestrating the alleged pressure through federal institutions, though he did not provide evidence to substantiate the claim.
“All these intimidation and attacks were carried out on the order of Gboyega Oyetola over an election his candidate cannot win,” Adeleke said, adding that the situation, if left unchecked, could erode the foundations of democracy in the country.
In response to the development, the state government has initiated legal action.
Gov Adeleke Institute Legal Action Against EFCC
Jimi-Bada argued that while the anti-graft agency has the authority to investigate financial activities, it lacks the legal power to freeze a state government’s accounts without obtaining a court order.
He warned that the restriction could significantly disrupt government operations, including salary payments and ongoing projects.
“I have the mandate of the governor to proceed to court. EFCC can investigate the accounts, but it cannot freeze them without an order of court,” he said.
“This step will affect the running of government, but we will ensure that the agency acts within the ambit of the law.”he added.
The controversy deepened as the Osun State Commissioner for Finance, Sola Ogungbile, alleged that security operatives had stormed a branch of First Bank in Osogbo and arrested some staff members.
Ogungbile also dismissed allegations that state funds were being diverted for political campaigns, insisting that the Adeleke administration has maintained financial discipline.
He urged the EFCC to consider the broader implications of its actions on the welfare of residents, particularly civil servants who depend on timely salary payments.
The EFCC has yet to issue an official statement responding to the allegations as of the time of filing this report.
Earlier, the Osun State Government had raised alarm over what it described as plans by the EFCC to freeze not only government accounts but also those of top officials within the administration.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the government described the alleged plan as “lawless” and an attempt to paralyse governance in the state.
“The plot to freeze the state government accounts is meant to paralyse government activities ahead of the August 15 governorship election,” the statement read. “There is no legal basis or justification for such action.”
Experts Raise Concerns Over Balance Of Power
Legal experts say the dispute raises important questions about the balance of power between federal agencies and state governments.
Analysts note that freezing a government account without a court order could trigger constitutional challenges, particularly regarding the autonomy of state governments within Nigeria’s federal structure.
They add that the courts will likely play a decisive role in determining the legality of the EFCC’s directive.
Gov Adeleke Disburses Palliatives To Civil Servants
Amid the controversy, the Osun State Government announced the disbursement of another round of palliative payments to civil servants.
“As part of our commitment to civil servants, the backbone of our administration, we have once again disbursed palliatives to augment their salaries,” Rasheed said in a statement.
He noted that the Adeleke administration had introduced periodic palliative payments even before implementing the new minimum wage, positioning Osun among the first states to take such measures.
The government also used the opportunity to contrast its record with that of the previous administration, accusing it of failing to prioritise workers’ welfare.
“Our government is committed to ensuring that those who serve the state are treated with dignity and provided with their rightful compensation,” the statement added.
The juxtaposition of the palliative disbursement and the account freeze has heightened public interest in the unfolding situation.
While the state government seeks to reassure workers and residents of its commitment to welfare, the financial restrictions could pose significant challenges if not resolved promptly.
Observers warn that prolonged disruption of state finances could affect service delivery, delay infrastructure projects, and create uncertainty among investors and development partners.
As the legal battle looms, attention is expected to shift to the Federal High Court, where the Osun State Government will seek redress.
The outcome of the case could set an important precedent for the relationship between anti-corruption agencies and subnational governments in Nigeria.
