The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, over allegations of financial mismanagement and a N700 billion fraud.
Sources confirmed that Emmanuel was taken into custody on Tuesday at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, following an invitation by the anti-graft agency.
Allegations Against the Former Governor
Emmanuel, who governed Akwa Ibom State from 2015 to 2023, is accused of money laundering, fund diversion, and mismanagement of state funds during his tenure.
The arrest follows a petition from the civil society organization, Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT), which alleged that Emmanuel:
- Received over N3 trillion from the Federation Account but left the state with a N500 billion debt and N300 billion in unpaid projects.
- Failed to account for N700 billion in state funds.
- Authorized N31 billion in cash withdrawals from an account labeled “Office of the Governor” between 2019 and 2023.
A source familiar with the investigation disclosed:
“We have arrested the former governor over an alleged N700 billion fraud. Our investigations revealed massive cash withdrawals from government accounts, and NACAT’s petition played a crucial role in uncovering these irregularities.”
EFCC Yet to Release Official Statement
As of press time, the EFCC has not released an official statement regarding Emmanuel’s arrest. Additionally, the agency’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, has not responded to inquiries.
Former Governor’s Response
In January 2025, NACAT had publicly called for a probe into Emmanuel’s administration. However, the former governor’s aides have dismissed the allegations as politically motivated and baseless. His media assistant, Steven Abia, stated that Emmanuel remains unshaken by the corruption claims.
