In a startling turn of events, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigerian Incentive Risk Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) find themselves in the eye of a growing storm. A team of investigators, led by DCP Eloho Edwin Okpoziakpo, deployed to support Special Investigator Jim Obazee, appointed by President Bola Tinubu, has commenced intelligence findings that have sent shockwaves through the upper echelons of these institutions.

The investigation began with a formal request from Special Investigator Jim Obazee to the Inspector General of Police, dated August 18, seeking the deployment of four senior police officers to facilitate his mission. Responding promptly, the IGP granted approval on September 6, as conveyed in a letter signed by CP Abaniwonda S. Olufemi. The approved officers are DCP Eloho Edwin Okpoziakpo, CSP Celestine Odo, CSP Segun Aderoju, and DSP Tijani A. Bako.

Preliminary intelligence findings by DCP Eloho Edwin Okpoziakpo’s team have already rattled the highest levels of CBN and NIRSAL management. These findings hint at possible irregularities in the handling of Anchor Borrowers Funds, including allegations of fixed deposits held by individuals closely associated with the embattled CBN governor.

One individual, in particular, has raised eyebrows, with reports suggesting they operated a staggering 61 bank accounts, including 44 fixed deposit accounts and 2 treasury bills accounts. As panic grips these institutions, the investigation also delves into the alleged allocation of approximately 600,000 monthly for the upkeep of the former MD’s dogs.

Moreover, disturbing reports emerge of the destruction of files and records at NIRSAL in a bid to obstruct the ongoing investigation by DCP Eloho and his team. Among the obliterated documents is a contract related to the development of the ICT Policy. Financial trails indicate multiple payments for the same contract, but the record of this contract has mysteriously vanished from NIRSAL’s procurement department. The investigation team faces significant challenges in obtaining crucial contract records and documents, which may hinder their pursuit of the truth.

Credit: Imran  Mohammed/X