Equatorial Guinea’s President, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, has dismissed Baltasar Ebang Engonga, the Director General of the National Agency for Financial Investigation (ANIF), following a shocking scandal involving sex tapes. The decision was announced through Decree number 118/2024, dated November 4, citing Engonga’s “irregularities in office” and “inappropriate family and social conduct.”
Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo has been appointed to replace Engonga as the new director of ANIF. Avomo holds a law degree from the National University of Equatorial Guinea (UNGE) and has previously served in several high-ranking roles, including Magistrate Judge of the Institution of Malabo and Secretary General of the Ministry of Finance, Economy, and Planning.
The scandal surrounding Engonga has sent shockwaves through the nation. During an investigation into financial misconduct, ANIF officials reportedly discovered over 400 explicit videos recorded by Engonga. The videos allegedly feature intimate encounters with the wives of high-profile figures, including government ministers, police officials, and even the sister of the President. These tapes were said to have been filmed with the women’s consent but were discovered during a raid on Engonga’s office and subsequently leaked online, causing widespread outrage.
Local media outlets, including Ahora EG and Real Equatorial Guinea, reported that Engonga’s misconduct went beyond financial improprieties. One media source detailed that the videos were found as part of an impromptu search tied to financial irregularities, which quickly turned into a scandal that has dominated public discourse.
“The inappropriate actions and misconduct uncovered have prompted swift measures to ensure accountability and prevent future scandals,” a government spokesperson explained.
Public anger over the leaked videos has been intense, pushing the government to introduce measures aimed at curbing further ethical violations within state offices. In response, authorities have ordered the installation of surveillance cameras across all government offices.
“This initiative is meant to ensure adherence to ethical standards in public service and prevent any further misconduct by public officials,” PUNCH Online reported.
Engonga, a well-known economist, is facing serious legal consequences for his actions, which have also raised questions about abuse of power and ethical lapses among top officials. The arrest and dismissal mark a significant step by President Obiang’s administration in confronting corruption and misconduct within government ranks. Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo, as the new director, is expected to lead reforms and restore credibility to the agency tasked with fighting financial crime.
Public reaction has been mixed, with many expressing shock and disappointment over the scandal’s scale.
“This type of behavior is unacceptable, especially from someone in a position of public trust,” commented a local resident.