President Tinubu Directs EFCC to Lift Freeze on Osun State Accounts

President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to urgently return to court and reverse the order that led to the freezing of Osun State Government accounts.

He explained that this step was necessary to maintain public trust in the democratic process, especially as the state prepares for its upcoming governorship election in just a few days.

In a statement released by the State House on Thursday, the President clarified that he does not oppose the EFCC’s legal authority. However, he raised concerns about the timing of the action. According to him, while the commission acted within its mandate and with a valid court order obtained on August 5, 2026, the decision came at an inappropriate moment. He noted that his concern was not about the legality of the move, but about how its timing could be perceived.

The EFCC had secured the court order as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct involving the Osun State Government. The agency maintained that its actions were lawful, emphasizing that it has the power to restrict accounts linked to suspected financial crimes. It also stated that it can impose a temporary freeze for up to 72 hours without a court order before seeking further judicial approval.

President Tinubu pointed out that actions taken by federal institutions are often attributed to him, regardless of whether he was directly involved. He reiterated that since taking office, he has consistently supported the independence of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies, allowing them to operate without political interference.

He added that he has deliberately avoided interfering in the operations of the EFCC and similar bodies, stressing that strong and independent institutions are essential for good governance and the rule of law.

Nonetheless, he acknowledged that he had not yet received full details about the circumstances that led to the EFCC’s decision. Despite this, he insisted that the timing of the account freeze was inappropriate and warranted his intervention.

Tinubu further emphasized that, with the Osun governorship election so close, no action should create the impression that federal agencies are being used to influence the electoral process.