Obaseki Placed On Watchlist As EFCC Probes Edo Govt Contracts

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has placed former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, under scrutiny as investigations into his administration’s financial activities intensify.

The anti-graft agency is reportedly examining transactions and contracts awarded during Obaseki’s eight-year tenure as governor.

Obaseki, who concluded his term on November 12, had previously alleged that the EFCC intended to arrest him immediately after he left office.

Recall that Edo State’s new governor, Monday Okpebholo, had set up a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to review Obaseki’s administration.

Earlier, on November 2, the EFCC detained five senior officials from Obaseki’s government, including the Accountant General, Julius Anelu, over substantial withdrawals from the state treasury within a short timeframe.

Despite these developments, Obaseki has expressed his readiness to face any probe, stating on November 8 that he has no fears about the EFCC’s investigations and is prepared to account for his time in office.

However, EFCC insiders, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed to The PUNCH that while investigations are ongoing, no direct link to irregularities has been established against the former governor.

“An investigation into his administration has started, but he won’t be invited until we reach an advanced stage. So far, many transactions are not directly tied to him, as he delegated responsibilities to others. Our team is pursuing leads on contracts and other transactions under his tenure,” a source explained.

Another source revealed that Obaseki, like all former governors, is automatically placed on the EFCC’s watch list to ensure they remain within reach during investigations.

“All former governors are monitored by the EFCC, regardless of active investigations. This prevents them from leaving the country while cases are ongoing,” the source added.