In a dramatic turn of events, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, over an alleged N700 billion fraud, sending shockwaves through the political landscape.
According to Sahara Reporters, which announced the development via its official X handle, Emmanuel was taken into custody on Tuesday after responding to an invitation from the anti-graft agency at its headquarters in Abuja. He arrived at approximately 12:30 p.m. and was immediately detained for interrogation.
A credible source confirmed to The PUNCH that the arrest was triggered by a petition from the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT), a civil society organization that accused Emmanuel of large-scale financial misconduct, including money laundering, diversion of public funds, and misappropriation of state resources.
The petition alleges that throughout his tenure from 2015 to 2023, Emmanuel received a staggering N3 trillion from the Federation Account but left Akwa Ibom State with a crippling N500 billion debt profile and unpaid projects worth N300 billion. However, the most damning accusation is that N700 billion remains unaccounted for.
Investigations reportedly uncovered a mind-boggling N31 billion withdrawn in cash from a single account under the “Office of the Governor” between 2019 and 2023. This revelation has further intensified scrutiny over the former governor’s financial dealings.
“We have arrested the former governor of Akwa Ibom over an alleged N700 billion fraud. A civil society organization, NACAT, petitioned the EFCC, prompting our investigation. Our findings so far have raised serious concerns.”
As of the time of filing this report, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale has yet to issue an official statement, despite repeated calls and messages from Sahara Reporters seeking an update.
The arrest of Udom Emmanuel marks another high-profile corruption case under the EFCC’s renewed anti-corruption drive, reigniting public discourse on the financial mismanagement of state resources by political leaders.
With Emmanuel now in custody, Nigerians eagerly await further revelations as the investigation unfolds. Will justice be served, or will this case fade away like many before it?
PIONEER NEWS 