Benin City, Edo State – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Jonathan Okunbor, a prime suspect in a massive N6 billion fraud scandal involving 18 local government areas in Edo State. The arrest took place at Eterno Hotel in Benin City, where Okunbor was allegedly attempting to evade arrest. The EFCC has stated that Okunbor diverted the funds through his company, Kezmith Global Ventures, using the identity of Mr. Godfrey Emode.
The EFCC remains committed to bringing Okunbor to justice and ensuring that the stolen funds are recovered. According to the EFCC, preliminary investigations revealed that approximately N6 billion was funneled into Kezmith Global Ventures, a company allegedly operated by Okunbor using the alias Mr. Godfrey Emode. During the investigation, Emode was apprehended and reportedly led EFCC operatives to Okunbor, who was located at Eterno Hotel during a pre-trial meeting.
The EFCC also disclosed that its operatives faced obstruction during their attempt to arrest Okunbor at the hotel. The statement alleged that Mr. Asue Ighodalo, the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate in the last election, and his associates interfered, claiming Okunbor was a tribunal witness in an effort to prevent his arrest. The EFCC reiterated its neutrality, stating that it has no interest in election witnesses unless there is evidence linking them to corruption.
The Commission assured the public that Okunbor would be brought to justice for his alleged role in the misappropriation of funds. The Edo State Chapter of the PDP raised concerns over an alleged attempt by operatives of the EFCC to arrest its key witnesses ahead of the governorship election tribunal hearing, which resumed today
