Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to vacate the court order freezing the accounts of the Osun Government. Tinubu issued this directive in a statement personally released on Thursday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the president became aware of the commission obtaining a court order on August 5 to freeze the state government’s accounts. He expressed embarrassment over the timing of the action, although he acknowledged the commission’s exercise of its statutory mandate backed by a court order. Tinubu emphasized that actions by federal institutions are often attributed to him, regardless of his prior knowledge of those actions.
Tinubu reiterated his commitment to the independence of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies. He asserted that since taking office, he has consistently maintained that these agencies should operate independently, professionally, and without fear, favor, or political interference. The president has deliberately ref
rained from interfering in the operational activities of the EFCC and other investigative bodies.
He underscored the importance of strong democratic institutions operating within the law for good governance and the rule of law. As president, Tinubu is committed to allowing state institutions to function independently and take necessary actions for proper governance without needing prior approval.
However, Tinubu noted that he had not been fully briefed on the circumstances that led the EFCC to seek the court order. He expressed concern over the timing of the EFCC’s action, especially with Osun’s governorship election approaching, and felt compelled to intervene. He emphasized that no action should give the impression that the EFCC or any federal agency was being used to influence the electoral process.
In his directive, Tinubu made it clear that maintaining public confidence in the integrity, credibility, and fairness of the democratic process is paramount. He instructed the EFCC to immediately proceed to
court to vacate the order and discontinue any action against the Osun State Government related to this matter. Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.