Adeleke Sues EFCC for N2bn Over Account Freezing

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has initiated a N2 billion lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding the freezing of the state’s Federal Statutory Allocation Account. The lawsuit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1762/2026, was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The Attorney General of Osun State and the state’s Accountant General are also plaintiffs in the case, while the EFCC, its Chairman, and First Bank of Nigeria Limited are named as defendants. Adeleke contends that the EFCC lacked the legal authority to freeze the account without a court order, arguing that this action contravenes the Constitution, the EFCC Establishment Act, and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.

The plaintiffs assert that the EFCC's directive to First Bank to freeze the account undermines the constitutional powers of the Osun State Government and threatens its financial autonomy. They seek a court declaration that the freezing is unlawful, an order to lift restrictions on the account, and a perpetual injunction against the EFCC from future interference without due process.

Additionally, Adeleke is requesting N2 billion in damages for the alleged unlawful interference with public funds.