The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has disclosed that about 18 state governments are currently being investigated over allegations bordering on the misuse and mismanagement of public funds.
The commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwujaren, made the disclosure while providing updates on recent enforcement actions involving state finances.
He confirmed that the number of states under investigation runs into double digits but declined to reveal their identities, citing the need to protect the integrity of ongoing investigations.
The disclosure followed the EFCC’s decision to restrict access to an Osun State Government account over suspected irregular financial transactions. The commission said the action formed part of its broader mandate to safeguard public resources and prevent the diversion of funds belonging to the people.
According to the EFCC, the Osun State case is not an isolated development, as the commission has taken similar steps in other states where intelligence reports indicated suspicious movement of government funds.
Uwujaren also referenced the commission’s previous intervention involving an Edo State Government account before the emergence of Governor Monday Okpebholo, noting that the action was aimed at preserving state resources and ensuring proper accountability.
The EFCC maintained that its investigations and enforcement measures are guided by existing laws and credible intelligence, stressing that its operations are not targeted at any particular government or political administration.
The latest revelation highlights the commission’s intensified focus on improving financial accountability among state governments, as authorities continue efforts to ensure transparency and responsible management of public funds.
The identities of the states under investigation remain undisclosed pending the conclusion of the ongoing probes.
