GOMEP-NG Condemns EFCC’s Freezing of Osun Account, Raises Concerns Over Timing Ahead of Governorship Poll
Abuja – The Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG) has condemned the reported freezing of an Osun State Government account by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the development as disturbing and raising concerns over its timing, barely days before the state’s governorship election.
In a statement jointly signed by its President, Comrade Akpovoke Otiti and National Secretary, Mr. Clinton Uba, the media body expressed concern over reports that the affected account, domiciled with First Bank, is allegedly used for the payment of workers’ salaries.
GOMEP-NG said that while it supports the fight against corruption and believes no individual or institution should be above the law, law enforcement agencies must ensure that their actions are guided by due process, fairness and transparency, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
The organisation stated that the reported action could create public anxiety and disrupt essential government functions, especially if salaries and other statutory obligations are affected.
“It is important that anti-corruption agencies carry out their constitutional responsibilities in a manner that does not undermine public confidence or create perceptions of political interference. The timing of such actions is as important as the actions themselves,” the statement said.
GOMEP-NG called on the EFCC to publicly clarify the legal basis for the reported restriction on the account and to ensure that any investigation is conducted in accordance with the rule of law without unnecessarily affecting innocent workers or the delivery of public services.
The organisation also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to consider postponing the Osun State governorship election, arguing that the current developments have raised concerns about whether all political parties are operating on a level playing field. It stated that the credibility of any democratic election depends not only on the conduct of voting but also on the existence of conditions that inspire public confidence in the fairness of the electoral process.
Furthermore, GOMEP-NG condemned any institution or individual allegedly using the name or authority of the Federal Government in a manner capable of creating unrest, fear, or unnecessary tension among citizens. The organisation stressed that public institutions must act responsibly and avoid actions or perceptions that could undermine public trust or national stability.
The organisation further urged all public institutions to uphold professionalism, impartiality and accountability in the discharge of their responsibilities, stressing that Nigerians expect transparency and fairness from every arm of government, particularly in the build-up to elections.
It also appealed to all stakeholders to remain committed to democratic principles and allow due process to prevail in the interest of peace, stability and good governance.