Anambra Govenor, Willie Obiano Placed On EFCC Watchlist Ahead Of His Handover

Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano has been placed on a watchlist by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) ahead of the expiration of his tenure on March 16, 2022.

In a letter addressed to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) dated November 15, 2021, the commission requested the service to place Obiano on a watch list.

The EFCC also requested the NIS to inform the commission anytime the governor is traveling out of the country from any of the international airports and other entry and exit points in the country.

It is not clear why the anti-graft agency placed Obiano on security watch since he is still enjoying immunity from criminal prosecution as a sitting governor.

Sources said the move is an indication that the agency may have been discreetly investigating Obiano and possibly have intelligence that he plans to escape after he hands over power to his successor, Prof Charles Soludo.

Although EFCC spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, is yet to comment on the development, it was gathered that Obiano is one of the governors being investigated for graft and money laundering, Punch reports.

‘EFCC Didn’t Place Willie Obiano On Watchlist’

While speaking with Daily Trust on the phone, the state commissioner for information and public enlightenment, Mr.C.Don Adinuba denied the story.

Adinuba said the anti-graft agency didn’t place the governor on its travel watchlist, adding that it is ridiculous for such to happen.

He said, ”It is crazy for anybody to say the governor is placed on travel watchlist , when he is already out of the country. Any person who originated the story was out to serve mischievous intention.”

This comes a few days after reports emerged that Obiano and Soludo are planing to joining o join the All Progressives Congress (APC) after winning the Anambra governorship election which was held earlier this month.