Osun Heads To Court As EFCC Freezes State Account Days Before Election

The Osun State Government has announced plans to seek legal redress against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the freezing of a state government bank account, describing the action as unlawful and capable of disrupting government operations.

Reports emerged that the EFCC placed a restriction on an Osun State Government account domiciled with First Bank, with the development coming days before the state’s governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.

The action reportedly involved a “Post No Debit” restriction on the account, preventing withdrawals, although details surrounding the exact amount affected and the duration of the restriction remained unclear.

Reacting to the development, Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration accused the anti-graft agency of targeting the state ahead of the governorship election, alleging that the move was politically motivated.

The Osun Government said it would challenge the EFCC’s action in court, arguing that freezing the accounts of a state government could affect the payment of salaries, execution of projects and smooth running of government activities.

In a statement, the state government maintained that there was no legal justification for restricting access to government funds, insisting that the EFCC lacked the authority to take such action against a state’s operational accounts without proper legal backing.

The development followed earlier allegations and counter allegations between the Osun Government and opposition figures over financial management in the state, including claims surrounding alleged irregularities in payroll and public spending.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun had previously called on the EFCC to investigate alleged financial misconduct involving state funds, including claims relating to ghost workers and payroll issues, allegations the state government has disputed.

However, the EFCC has not publicly provided a detailed explanation on the latest restriction, although the commission has previously stated that account freezes are part of investigations into suspected financial crimes and efforts to prevent movement of funds under investigation.

The timing of the development has intensified political debate in Osun, with the state preparing for its governorship election amid heightened activities by the major political parties.

Governor Adeleke’s camp has continued to accuse opponents of attempting to use federal institutions to influence the electoral process, while critics of the administration insist that financial accountability must not be sacrificed because of political considerations.

The planned legal action by the Osun Government is expected to determine whether the EFCC’s move complied with existing laws and whether the restriction on the account can remain in place pending further investigations.

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