The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced an investigation into the administration of the former governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu, following the discovery made by forensic auditors engaged by the current Governor, Dr. Alex Otti.
Sources within the anti-graft agency revealed to The Whistler that a comprehensive probe of Ikpeazu’s administration has been initiated.
According to the sources, the investigation will cover various allegations, including misappropriation of funds, violations of the public procurement laws of Abia State, and the diversion of ₦10 billion. This sum was reportedly raised by the governor from UBA and paid to Ferotex Construction company for an airport project that, according to the auditors, does not exist.
Another source disclosed that the EFCC has received copies of the forensic audit report prepared by KPMG Advisory Services. The report allegedly indicts the former governor of financial recklessness during his eight years in office.
This report was submitted to the EFCC by the administration of Alex Otti.
Upon receiving the report, the EFCC commended Governor Otti, stating that this initiative is the first of its kind in the country.
Analysis of the forensic audit report has revealed how the ex-governor and state officials allegedly circumvented the Public Procurement Law of Abia State in the award of various contracts worth billions of naira.
