By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately vacate a court order freezing the Osun State Government’s accounts. The President issued the directive on Thursday after learning that the EFCC secured the order on August 5, 2026. Tinubu said the timing, coming days before the Osun governorship election, could undermine public confidence and create the impression of federal interference in the electoral process.
Tinubu Expresses Concern Over Timing of EFCC Action
President Tinubu said he was deeply embarrassed by the timing of the EFCC’s action rather than the agency’s legal mandate.
He explained that Nigerians often attribute the actions of federal institutions to the President, even when he has no prior knowledge of their decisions.
According to him, the timing of the court order raised concerns because Osun State is approaching a crucial governorship election.
President Reaffirms Independence of Anti-Corruption Agencies
Tinubu reiterated his commitment to preserving the independence of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies.
He noted that since assuming office, he has allowed the EFCC and other investigative bodies to carry out their statutory duties professionally and without political interference.
The President stressed that democratic institutions must operate within the law to strengthen good governance and uphold the rule of law.
Federal Institutions Must Protect Electoral Integrity
Tinubu said institutions established by law should perform their responsibilities independently.
However, he explained that he had not yet received the full details behind the EFCC’s decision to seek the court order.
Despite that, he insisted that the timing of the action was inappropriate because it could create doubts about the credibility and fairness of the upcoming Osun governorship election.
He emphasized that no federal agency should take actions capable of suggesting political interference in any election.
Tinubu Orders EFCC to Withdraw Court Order
To safeguard public trust in Nigeria’s democratic process, the President directed the EFCC to return to court immediately.
He instructed the anti-graft agency to vacate the order freezing the Osun State Government’s accounts and discontinue all related legal actions.
Tinubu said the directive serves the overriding public interest and reinforces his administration’s commitment to free, fair, and credible elections.
He concluded by wishing continued peace and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
