Tinubu Expresses ‘Deep Embarrassment’ Over Timing Of EFCC’s Osun Account Freeze

Tinubu Expresses ‘Deep Embarrassment’ Over Timing Of EFCC’s Osun Account Freeze President Bola Tinubu has said he feels “deeply embarrassed” by the timing of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC’s decision to freeze the Osun State Government’s account, clarifying that his concern was not with the agency’s legal mandate but with the circumstances surrounding the action.

Tinubu made the statement while directing the EFCC to return to court and seek the vacation of the order freezing the state government’s account. The President said the EFCC acted within its powers, having obtained a court order, but expressed concern that the move came at a politically sensitive period when Osun State was preparing for its governorship election. According to the President, actions taken by federal institutions are often linked to the Presidency, even when such decisions are made independently.

Tinubu stressed that he remains committed to allowing law enforcement agencies, including the EFCC, to carry out their responsibilities without political interference. However, he said protecting the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic process was necessary, especially where government actions could be perceived as affecting an electoral environment. The EFCC had earlier obtained a court order restricting access to the Osun State Government account as part of an investigation into alleged financial irregularities. The development drew criticism from the Osun State Government, which argued that the affected account was essential for running government operations, including payment of workers’ salaries. Tinubu’s directive means the anti-graft agency is expected to return to court to withdraw the order while continuing any lawful investigations through appropriate channels.