Tinubu orders EFCC to lift embargo placed Osun accounts, says "deeply embarrassed...

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to remove the embargo it placed on Osun accounts.

Even as he expressed disappointment over the embargo, saying “ I am deeply embarrassed by timing” ahead of election

Tinubu directing EFCC to immediately return to court to vacate the order freezing the bank accounts of the Osun State Government, added that the timing of the action risks undermining public confidence in the state’s forthcoming governorship election.

The President said that while the EFCC acted within its legal powers by obtaining a court order, freezing the state’s accounts just days before voters head to the polls could create the impression that federal institutions were being used to influence the electoral process.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Tinubu disclosed that he had been informed the anti-graft agency secured a court order on August 5, 2026, authorising the freezing of the state’s bank accounts.

He described the development as deeply concerning, stressing that although the EFCC enjoys operational independence, the actions of federal agencies are ultimately viewed by the public as actions of the Presidency.

“I am deeply embarrassed by the timing of this action because every decision taken by a federal institution is ultimately attributed to the Presidency,” the President said.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving the independence of anti-corruption agencies and other law enforcement institutions, noting that he has consistently resisted interfering in their operations since assuming office.

According to him, allowing agencies such as the EFCC to carry out their statutory responsibilities professionally and without political interference remains a key pillar of his administration’s governance philosophy.

“Since assuming office, I have consistently maintained that anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies must be allowed to discharge their statutory responsibilities independently, professionally, without fear or favour, and free from political interference,” he stated.

The president explained that his administration believes strong democratic institutions operating within the rule of law are fundamental to accountability and good governance.

Despite that commitment, Tinubu said the proximity of the EFCC’s action to the Osun governorship election necessitated presidential intervention.

He noted that although he was yet to receive a comprehensive briefing on the circumstances surrounding the investigation, preserving confidence in the credibility and fairness of the electoral process had become paramount.

“Osun State is only a few days away from its gubernatorial election. Therefore, nothing ought to be done to create the impression that the EFCC, or indeed any other federal agency, is being used to interfere with the election,” he said.

The President consequently directed the EFCC to immediately approach the court to vacate the freezing order and discontinue all legal proceedings instituted against the Osun State Government in connection with the matter.

Tinubu emphasised that protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process must remain a priority, particularly during election periods when public confidence in state institutions is under heightened scrutiny.

He reiterated that while anti-corruption agencies must continue to operate independently and uphold accountability, their actions should not create doubts about the transparency, neutrality or credibility of the country’s electoral system.

The directive comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the Osun governorship election and is expected to ease concerns over the potential impact of the account freeze on government operations and public perception of the electoral process.

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