By Gabriella Ogbu
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has debunked claims that Jonathan Okunbor, a prime suspect in a staggering ₦6 billion fraud case, served as a witness in the ongoing Edo State election tribunal.
The controversy erupted after Asue Ighodalo, the governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), alleged that Okunbor was part of his legal team’s witness list.
In a swift response on Wednesday, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale dismissed the claim, revealing that Okunbor was, in fact, at the center of a massive financial misappropriation scheme spanning all 18 local government areas of Edo State.
“The EFCC’s attention has been drawn to misleading reports suggesting that Jonathan Okunbor was an election witness.
“We categorically state that Okunbor is not connected to the PDP tribunal case. He is the prime suspect in a fraud investigation involving the diversion of billions in public funds,” Oyewale stated.
Investigations, according to the EFCC, uncovered a complex financial web, with Okunbor allegedly siphoning ₦6 billion through a company he secretly owned, Kezmith Global Ventures.
Shockingly, he operated the firm under the false identity of Godfrey Emode, a name that only came to light after Emode’s arrest led investigators straight to Okunbor’s hideout.
EFCC operatives tracked Okunbor to Eterno Hotel, where he was found in a pre-trial meeting.
Despite resistance from Ighodalo and his legal team, the anti-graft agency insisted on Okunbor’s immediate arrest, raising questions about possible attempts to shield him from prosecution.
“Ighodalo strongly insisted that Okunbor was his witness, even when it was clear he was aiding his escape,” Oyewale revealed.
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to due process, stressing that “being a tribunal witness does not grant immunity from prosecution.”
As the case unfolds, the agency urged the public to disregard the misleading narrative, vowing to pursue justice—without fear or favor.
