Former Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of misappropriating ₦700 billion in state funds.

Emmanuel arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4, following an invitation from the agency. His arrest follows a petition by the civil society group Network Against Corruption and Trafficking, which accused him of failing to account for large sums during his tenure from 2015 to 2023.

The petition claims Emmanuel received ₦3 trillion from the Federation Account but left the state with a ₦500 billion debt and abandoned projects worth ₦300 billion. The EFCC has yet to issue an official statement, but sources indicate he is being questioned about fund management.

The case has drawn public attention, with critics citing persistent corruption among political elites. Emmanuel has not made a public statement, while his supporters urge a fair investigation.

This development adds to the growing list of former governors under EFCC scrutiny, as the agency pledges to intensify its crackdown on financial misconduct. Nigerians are closely watching to see if this case leads to prosecution or fades like past high-profile corruption probes.