The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has gone after the Benue State governor, Mr Samuel Ortom after he defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress [APC] in what was described as a witch-hunt by analysts.
According to EFCC, Governor Ortom laundered over N20 billion Benue State funds withdrawn from four bank accounts operated by the State government between June, 2015, and March, 2018.
The said funds were allegedly pilfered through several withdrawals of N10 million shortly after monies were deposited through Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC).
Over N1.9 billion was deposited in the account between June 2015 and March 2018.
EFCC records alleged that three government officials made several withdrawals depleting the bank accounts.
According to the record, one Emmanuel Aorga withdrew a total of N369, 728,950.
Patrick Abah withdrew N130, 199,386, while Ochaja Peter withdrew N704, 041,000
Also, an account, titled Bureau for Internal Affairs and Special Services Accounts, received N19, 468,951,590.00 from FAAC between 2015 and 2018.
All the money, however, was withdrawn in cash of N10m cheques by a Benue State government official, by name Oliver Mtom, according to EFCC.
Up to N500 million, N300 million and N200 million were reportedly withdrawn in a day.
So far, some cashiers and accountants have been invited and interrogated, including two permanent secretaries.
Analysts have, however, faulted the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration which premised its campaign on anti-corruption.
Speaking on an Abuja-based radio station, he wondered why EFCC has not investigated Governor Ortom while he was a member of the ruling party.
“Why did EFCC has to wait until he defected from APC before launching attacks on him if really the accusations were true?” He asked.
He argued that the President Buhari administration claims to fight corruption, yet shielding corrupt members, only to launch investigations as soon as they leave the party.
The speaker insisted that the latest EFCC effort is a mere charade and a witch-hunt to intimidate the opposition as well as dissuade others from decamping from the party.
Recently, a wave of defections have hit the party, including the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, the Kwara State governor, Megida Abdulfatah Ahmed, several senators, members of the House of Representatives, and other party members
