EFCC Under Fire As Sam Amadi Rejects Govt Account Freeze Over Waste Concerns

The Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Sam Amadi, has criticised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over its decision to freeze the Osun State Government’s account, arguing that public funds cannot be restricted merely on the basis of fears that they could be mismanaged.

Amadi made the remarks on Friday while appearing on Arise Television’s Prime Time, where he discussed the controversy surrounding the EFCC’s action against the Osun State Government.

According to him, a state government has a constitutional mandate to utilise public funds, while any official suspected of wrongdoing can be investigated and prosecuted if sufficient evidence is established.

“The EFCC cannot freeze a state government account simply on the fear of squandering or waste. The government has a right to spend its funds.

“Even if there is an allegation of dissipation, officials can still be prosecuted afterwards if any wrongdoing is established,” Amadi said.

The public affairs analyst also questioned the timing of the EFCC’s intervention, suggesting that it could be part of a political strategy by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to exert pressure on Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke.

However, Amadi praised the professional reputation of EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, describing him as an innovative figure committed to the fight against corruption. He said the controversy presented an important test of Olukoyede’s ability to keep the commission independent of political pressure.

“I have met the EFCC Chairman and had conversations with him, and I consider him an innovative person who is committed to fighting corruption.

“For me, this is his first real test, and he must show that he can withstand political pressure,” he stated.

Amadi further alleged that the EFCC’s action created the impression that the ruling party was seeking to use the anti-corruption agency to put pressure on the Osun governor.

“It clearly appeared to be an APC strategy to close in on the Osun State governor,” he claimed.

The EFCC, however, has maintained that the account restriction is linked to an ongoing investigation into alleged financial irregularities and insisted that its action was not politically motivated.