EFCC arrest, detains Ex-Akwa Ibom Governor Udom Emmanuel over alleged N700bn fraud

Former Akwa Ibom governor Udom Emmanuel has been detained by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) amid serious allegations of misappropriating public funds totalling approximately N700 billion.

Emmanuel, who governed from 2015 until 2023, was invited to the EFCC’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday at around 12:30 p.m. to answer queries concerning suspected money laundering, fund diversion, and related financial improprieties. According to sources, the summons followed a formal petition lodged by the civil society group Network Against Corruption and Trafficking.

The petitioner contended that over the course of eight years, Emmanuel received a staggering N3 trillion from the Federation Account. It was further alleged that, rather than being utilised appropriately, these funds left a legacy of financial discrepancies – including an outstanding debt of N500 billion alongside uncompleted projects valued at N300 billion.

In addition, investigations have brought to light that a single account, labelled “Office of the Governor”, witnessed cash withdrawals totalling N31 billion between 2019 and 2023. Such findings have amplified concerns regarding the handling of public funds during his administration.

Efforts to reach the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, for further comment were unsuccessful as his contact remained out of service. The commission’s action against the former governor marks a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing drive to tackle corruption and restore accountability within public office.

As the investigation unfolds, further details are awaited regarding the full scope of the alleged financial mismanagement and the subsequent legal proceedings that may follow.