The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel over allegations of financial misconduct involving N700 billion.
Emmanuel, who governed Akwa Ibom from 2015 to 2023, reportedly arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday after being invited by the anti-corruption agency. Shortly after his arrival, he was taken into custody.
A source within the EFCC, who spoke anonymously, noted that the former governor was invited to answer questions regarding accusations of money laundering, misappropriation of public funds, and theft.
“We have arrested the former governor of Akwa Ibom over an alleged N700 billion fraud. A civil society organization called the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking petitioned the EFCC, prompting our investigation,” the source said.
According to the petition, Emmanuel’s administration received N3 trillion from the Federation Account over his eight-year tenure. However, he allegedly left the state with a debt profile of N500 billion and uncompleted projects worth N300 billion. The petitioners also claim that he could not account for N700 billion.
Further investigations reportedly uncovered suspicious cash withdrawals amounting to N31 billion from a single government account named “Office of the Governor.” These withdrawals were allegedly made between 2019 and 2023.
