The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has placed former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, on its watch list as it launches a probe into various transactions and contracts awarded during his administration.
Sources within the EFCC revealed that a team of investigators has been assigned to examine the financial dealings under Obaseki’s eight-year tenure. While most of the transactions are not directly tied to the former governor, investigators are pursuing leads to uncover possible evidence.
One insider noted, “The investigation is still in its early stages. Obaseki cannot be summoned until there is sufficient progress. He used intermediaries for most transactions, making it harder to trace anything directly to him. However, there are promising leads we are exploring.”
Another EFCC source clarified that placing former governors on the commission’s watch list is standard procedure.
“All former governors are routinely monitored, regardless of whether they are under investigation. It prevents them from leaving the country while ensuring they are available if needed,” the source explained.
Obaseki, who completed his tenure on November 12, previously acknowledged that the EFCC might arrest him after he left office. He expressed his readiness to cooperate with the agency and provide a full account of his stewardship.
In a related development, Governor Monday Okpebholo, Obaseki’s successor, has established a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to scrutinize his predecessor’s administration.
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