Outrage over alleged erroneous transfer of N100m Anambra fund to ex-IGP son’s account
Outrage in Anambra State Over Alleged Fund Transfer
Residents of Anambra State are expressing outrage following reports of a N100 million transfer from the state government’s account to the bank account of Victor Egbetokun, identified as the son of former Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
Sahara Reporters reported that the money was transferred in four installments of N25 million each. Benjamin Hundeyin, the Force Public Relations Officer, confirmed during a live television interview that Egbetokun acknowledged the transfer and was advised to direct his bank to reverse the funds, which he stated was executed promptly.
The situation has raised concerns among many citizens regarding the management of state finances under Governor Chukwuma Soludo. Some residents have questioned the circumstances surrounding the transfer, suggesting it is unusual for such a significant amount to be misrouted, particularly to a beneficiary with no apparent ties to the state.
Kingsley Ubani, a public affairs analyst and critic of the state government, voiced his concerns, stating, “The question is how did the money get there? Out of 36 states, it had to be Anambra – managed by an acclaimed Professor of Economics – that N100 million would ‘miss road’ without the state government retrieving it until it became public knowledge?”
Ubani further scrutinized the approval process for the transfer, asking how such an error could occur without oversight. “If N100 million can be transferred erroneously without detection, how many other funds have been mismanaged in the past?” he questioned, calling for transparency from the state leadership.
Another Anambra resident, Peter Ndukaike, expressed frustration at the lack of government response since the incident became public, suggesting that officials may be attempting to suppress the issue. “If such an amount can be transferred out in ‘error,’ who knows how much of Anambra funds have been moved without any trace?” he said, stressing the need for accountability.
Journalist Fisayo Soyombo shared his thoughts on social media, highlighting the peculiar nature of the transfer, stating, “The Anambra State Government was going to make an erroneous N100 million transfer but it did not land in the account of you reading this or any of the 237.5 million Nigerians.”
In response to the allegations, Christian Aburime, the governor’s press secretary, asserted that the transfer was unrelated to the Anambra State Government. “Anambra State has no hand in the transfer. It was an honest error that has already been reversed,” he stated. He also emphasized that the incident occurred months ago and had been resolved, affirming the governor’s integrity as a financial manager.
The controversy surrounding the transfer continues to dominate public discourse as citizens await further clarification from state officials.
