President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to vacate the court order freezing the bank accounts of the Osun State Government, following widespread public criticism of the agency’s action.
The President, in a personally signed statement, said while he respects the EFCC’s constitutional mandate and the court order backing its decision, he was deeply concerned about the timing of the move.
Tinubu explained that actions taken by federal institutions are often attributed to the Presidency, regardless of whether he had prior knowledge or involvement.
“I must state that I feel deeply embarrassed not by the EFCC’s exercise of its mandate backed by a court order, but by the timing of the agency’s action,” the President said.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to preserving the independence of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies, stressing that he has consistently avoided interfering in their operational activities.
According to him, agencies such as the EFCC must be allowed to carry out their statutory responsibilities professionally, independently, and without fear, favour, or political influence.
Tinubu noted that since assuming office, he has deliberately refrained from directing or influencing the operations of investigative and prosecutorial bodies because strong democratic institutions are essential for good governance and the rule of law.
He further stated that institutions established by law should be allowed to exercise their clearly defined powers without requiring presidential approval before taking action.
The President’s directive comes after the EFCC’s decision to freeze the Osun State Government’s accounts sparked widespread backlash from Nigerians, with many questioning the timing and implications of the action.
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