In a shocking development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly set its sights on the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, following allegations of a staggering N200 million expenditure on phone calls. Nigerian Stories broke the news on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, sparking public outrage and intense scrutiny over financial practices in the state.
The EFCC is also investigating the alleged mismanagement of N11.5 billion allocated to the Ondo State Ministry of Finance. These revelations have cast a spotlight on what appears to be a culture of extravagant spending and questionable financial accountability within the state government.
The reported N200 million call allowance has raised eyebrows across the nation, with critics questioning how such an astronomical amount could be justified for communication expenses. Analysts have described it as an abuse of public funds, and citizens are demanding transparency from the Speaker and the Assembly leadership.
“This is a flagrant misuse of taxpayers’ money,” a governance expert commented. “How can phone calls cost N200 million in a state grappling with developmental challenges?”
In addition to the Speaker’s alleged phone call expenses, the EFCC is investigating the management of N11.5 billion allocated to the Ministry of Finance. Sources within the anti-graft agency revealed that the funds were meant for developmental projects and financial operations but are suspected to have been diverted or misappropriated.
An EFCC insider, who requested anonymity, stated, “We are leaving no stone unturned. Every kobo of public funds must be accounted for, and those found culpable will face the full wrath of the law.”
This latest probe underscores the EFCC’s renewed commitment to rooting out corruption in public offices, particularly at the state level. The anti-graft agency has been on a mission to clamp down on financial irregularities that undermine governance and development.
While the Ondo State government has yet to release an official statement, citizens have taken to social media to express their outrage. Many are calling for a comprehensive audit of the state’s financial activities and for the Speaker to be held accountable if found guilty.
A resident of Akure, the state capital, lamented, “We are struggling with bad roads, poor healthcare, and unpaid salaries, yet our leaders are allegedly spending hundreds of millions on phone calls? This is unacceptable.”
The EFCC is expected to formally invite the Ondo Speaker for questioning in the coming days, as well as key officials from the Ministry of Finance. Observers are eager to see how the investigation unfolds and whether it will lead to meaningful reforms in the state’s financial management practices.
This unfolding drama in Ondo State serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and fiscal discipline in Nigeria’s public institutions. As the nation watches, the hope remains that justice will be served, and the era of impunity brought to an end.
PIONEER NEWS 