Tinubu Orders EFCC to Withdraw Court Order Freezing Osun Government Account

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately withdraw a court order freezing an account belonging to the Osun State Government. The President issued the directive in a statement he personally signed on Thursday.

Tinubu said he was deeply concerned by the timing of the EFCC’s action, explaining that although the agency acted within its legal powers and based on a court order, the move could create the wrong public perception. He therefore instructed the EFCC to return to court, vacate the order and discontinue all related proceedings against the Osun State Government.

The President said he decided to intervene because actions taken by federal institutions are often attributed to him, even when he has no prior knowledge of them. According to him, it was necessary to clarify his position and prevent any misunderstanding.

Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to the independence of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies, stating that since assuming office in May 2023, he has allowed them to carry out their constitutional responsibilities without political interference. He added that strong democratic institutions are vital to good governance and the rule of law.

However, the President noted that although he was yet to receive the full details of the matter, the timing of the EFCC’s action was inappropriate. He pointed out that Osun State is only a few days away from its governorship election, making the issue particularly sensitive.

Tinubu stressed that no action should give the impression that the EFCC or any other federal agency is being used to influence the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State. He said the directive was intended to protect the credibility of the electoral process and maintain public confidence.