President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately take steps to vacate the court order freezing the bank accounts of the Osun State Government, stressing that the action should not cast doubt on the credibility of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.
The President disclosed that he became aware of the court order, reportedly obtained by the EFCC on August 5, 2026, and expressed concern over the timing of the action. While reaffirming his respect for the EFCC’s constitutional mandate and the authority of the court, he said the development was embarrassing because actions taken by federal institutions are often perceived by the public as having presidential approval, even when he has no prior knowledge of them.
He reiterated that since assuming office, his administration has upheld the independence of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies, allowing them to carry out their statutory responsibilities professionally, without fear, favour, or political interference. According to him, he has deliberately refrained from influencing the operational activities of the EFCC and other investigative agencies because strong and independent institutions are essential to democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.
The President emphasized that government institutions are established by law to perform their responsibilities without requiring prior presidential approval. However, he noted that although he had yet to receive a full briefing on the circumstances that led the EFCC to obtain the court order, he considered the timing of the action inappropriate, given the proximity of the Osun State governorship election.
He warned that no action should create the impression that the EFCC or any other federal agency is being used to influence or interfere with the electoral process.
In the interest of preserving public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions and ensuring the credibility, fairness, and integrity of the election, the President announced that he had directed the EFCC to immediately approach the court to vacate the order freezing the Osun State Government’s accounts and discontinue all related legal proceedings.
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