President Bola Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to vacate a court order freezing the bank accounts of the Osun State Government, citing concerns over the timing of the action ahead of the governorship election. The directive came after the EFCC obtained the court order on August 5, according to a statement released by the presidency. Tinubu expressed embarrassment over the timing, stating that he was not opposed to the EFCC’s exercise of its mandate but was troubled by the agency’s action occurring days before the election.
The freeze on Osun State Government accounts had sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it could interfere with the state’s financial operations during a critical electoral period. Tinubu’s intervention follows growing pressure from political leaders and civil society groups who warned that the move could undermine the state’s ability to function properly. The president’s order now requires the EFCC to immediately approach the court to reverse the order.
Sources indicate that Tinubu’s directive was based on a review of the situation and an assessment of the potential impact on the upcoming election. The EFCC has not yet responded publicly to the order, but legal experts suggest that the court may be expected to act swiftly given the political sensitivity of the matter. (thisdaylive.com)
