The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released former Sokoto State Governor and immediate past Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, after hours of questioning on Monday, following his invitation over alleged financial impropriety during his tenure.
Tambuwal’s release comes amid a wave of backlash from opposition figures who have described the move as politically motivated and part of a wider clampdown on dissenting voices. The development has sparked tensions across party lines, with several prominent Nigerians condemning what they call a “targeted witch-hunt” of opposition leaders.
The former governor was invited by the EFCC to respond to questions relating to the management of state funds and certain contracts awarded during his eight-year administration in Sokoto. While EFCC officials have remained tight-lipped on the specifics, sources close to the investigation hinted that the inquiry relates to alleged irregularities uncovered in a recent audit.
In a show of support, key political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi both condemned the arrest, describing it as a politically motivated attack aimed at silencing dissent and weaponizing anti-corruption agencies.
In a statement, Atiku said:
“This is a disturbing pattern. The selective use of state institutions against opposition figures undermines democracy.”
Peter Obi also urged the government to resist the temptation to politicize the fight against corruption:
“The rule of law must remain sacrosanct. Transparency and fairness must be at the heart of every investigation.”
The PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum, and Senator Dino Melaye, were among those who visited the EFCC headquarters in Abuja to express solidarity with Tambuwal. The high-profile visit underscored growing concerns within the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) about what they perceive as selective anti-corruption efforts.
Speaking to reporters after his release, Tambuwal maintained his innocence, stating:
“I have nothing to hide. I’ve served my people with transparency and integrity. I have answered the EFCC’s questions and will continue to cooperate as needed. But I must emphasize that institutions must not be used to intimidate political opponents.”
The EFCC, in a brief statement, confirmed that Tambuwal had been released and that investigations were ongoing. The agency reiterated its commitment to due process and impartiality in handling all cases, regardless of political affiliation.
Meanwhile, a broad coalition of political leaders, religious figures, and civil society personalities gathered in Abuja to show solidarity with Tambuwal. Among the high-profile visitors were:
- Former Senate President and the National Chairman of the ADC, David Mark
- Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri
- Former Minister of Communications, Isa Ali Pantami
- Hon. Sada Soli Jibiya, Member, House of Representatives
- Hajiya Naja’atu Mohammed, political activist and former APC chieftain
- Alhaji Buba Galadima, elder statesman and critic of the current administration
- Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, former Governor of Kano State
- Chief Imam of AYA Mosque Abuja, Sheikh Bello Bodinga
- Hon. Solomon Lalong, former Governor of Plateau State and ex-Minister of Youth and Sports Development
- Hon. Luke Onofiok, Esq., Life Bencher and former federal lawmaker
- Senator Abdallah Wali
- Abubakar Malami, SAN, immediate past Attorney General and Minister of Justice
- Hon. Umar Bature, PDP National Organizing Secretary
- Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, H.E. Tafida
- Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives
- Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transport
- Mohammed Bindow Jibrilla, former Governor of Adamawa State
- Emeka Ihedioha, former Governor of Imo State
- Hajiya Aisha Binani, 2023 APC gubernatorial candidate in Adamawa
- Isa Ashiru Kudan, 2023 PDP gubernatorial candidate in Kaduna State
- Prince Uche Secondus, former PDP National Chairman
- Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC National Publicity Secretary
This wide-ranging show of support cut across party lines, signaling concern over what many now perceive as a politicization of Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
In a brief statement following his release, Tambuwal said:
“I am committed to transparency and accountability. I have answered the EFCC’s questions and will continue to cooperate. But I urge all Nigerians to protect the sanctity of our institutions.”
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede defended the agency’s actions, asserting that no one is above the law and investigations are driven purely by facts and due process not politics.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, analysts and civil society organizations are urging the federal government and its agencies to maintain neutrality, warning that using state institutions to target opponents could erode public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
