President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately approach the court to vacate the order freezing the bank accounts of the Osun State Government, citing concerns over the timing of the action ahead of the state’s governorship election, SavannahNewnow Reports.
In a statement issued from the State House on Thursday, the President said he became aware that the EFCC had secured a court order on August 5, 2026, freezing the state’s accounts. While acknowledging the anti-graft agency’s statutory powers, Tinubu expressed concern that the action could create the impression that the Federal Government was attempting to influence the forthcoming election in Osun State.
The President emphasized that he has consistently upheld the independence of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies since assuming office, allowing them to carry out their constitutional responsibilities without political interference.
He noted that although he had not yet been fully briefed on the circumstances that informed the EFCC’s decision to obtain the court order, he considered the timing of the action “inauspicious” given the proximity of the governorship poll.
According to Tinubu, institutions of government must be allowed to function independently within the limits of the law.
However, he stressed that no action should undermine public confidence in the credibility, fairness, and integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
“Osun State is only a few days away from its gubernatorial election. Therefore, nothing ought to be done to give an impression that the EFCC or any other agency of the Federal Government is being used to interfere with the election,” the President stated.
Consequently, Tinubu said he had directed the EFCC to immediately return to court to vacate the freezing order and discontinue all related legal actions against the Osun State Government in the matter.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening democratic institutions while ensuring that their actions do not cast doubt on the neutrality of the electoral process.
