Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing his predecessor, Adegboyega Oyetola, of misappropriating $20 million and ₦1.5 billion during his tenure. Adeleke alleges that the former governor engaged in financial misconduct, money laundering, and the diversion of public funds meant for state projects. The petition, dated March 7, 2025, calls for a full investigation into Oyetola’s financial activities while in office.
According to sources within the Osun State Government, the allegedly stolen funds were primarily drawn from a World Bank grant intended to improve healthcare infrastructure in the state. Adeleke claims that despite the funds being allocated for hospital renovations and medical equipment, there is little to show for the expenditure. His administration has also accused Oyetola of violating the Public Procurement Act by awarding questionable contracts without proper due process.
In response to the allegations, the EFCC has acknowledged receipt of the petition and confirmed that an investigation is underway. An EFCC official, speaking anonymously, stated that the commission would review financial records, contract documents, and bank transactions linked to Oyetola’s administration. The probe is expected to determine whether the funds were misappropriated and, if so, who should be held accountable.
Oyetola, who currently serves as Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has not yet publicly responded to the accusations. However, his associates have dismissed Adeleke’s claims as politically motivated, arguing that the current administration is attempting to tarnish Oyetola’s reputation. They insist that all financial transactions during his tenure followed due process and that Adeleke is using the petition to distract from governance issues in Osun State.
The allegations add to the ongoing political rivalry between Adeleke and Oyetola, who contested against each other in the 2022 Osun gubernatorial election. Adeleke, who defeated Oyetola in the election, has repeatedly accused his predecessor of financial mismanagement, including leaving behind a ₦407.32 billion debt. The EFCC’s investigation into these latest allegations could further escalate political tensions in the state as both camps brace for legal and political battles.
