The detention of former Sokoto State governor and opposition coalition figure Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sparked political backlash, with senior opposition leaders accusing the agency of selective prosecution.
Tambuwal, held on Monday and released Tuesday, was detained shortly before the EFCC invited former Imo State governor Emeka Ihedioha for questioning. Both are key members of a recently formed opposition coalition.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) alleged the EFCC was engaging in a “choreographed media trial” aimed at discrediting coalition leaders. The party questioned the timing of fresh investigations into its chairman, former Senate President David Mark, and others years after leaving office, while alleging inaction on recent cases involving ruling party members.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar accused the APC-led federal government of using the EFCC to “harass, intimidate, and decimate” the opposition, warning that the practice undermines institutions and fuels corruption. Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi called for a transparent, non-partisan anti-corruption drive, urging uniform application of the law regardless of political affiliation.
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede rejected the claims, describing the ADC’s criticism as “self-serving” and insisting there are “no sacred cows” in its operations.
He said the commission had also investigated serving and former APC officials and stressed that corruption allegations, regardless of when they occurred, must be examined. Olukoyede urged Nigerians to disregard politically motivated statements, emphasising that the agency’s only mandate is to ensure accountability and probity in public office.
