Osun Election: Obi Raises Concern Over EFCC Account Freeze, Warns Against Political Intimidation

Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate in Nigeria, has voiced strong concerns regarding the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's (EFCC) decision to freeze the Osun State Government's bank accounts. Obi stated that while he supports the fight against corruption, such actions must not be weaponized for political intimidation or to undermine democratic processes.

“

I have always supported a relentless fight against corruption. However, that fight must never become a tool for political intimidation or the suppression of democracy.

The EFCC reportedly obtained a court order to freeze the accounts just days before the state's governorship election. Obi highlighted that the timing of this action raises significant questions about impartiality and public confidence in state institutions. He questioned why such a drastic measure was taken so close to an election if investigations had been ongoing for months.

“

The timing of this action raises legitimate questions. If investigations had been ongoing for months, why take such a drastic step on the eve of an election? In a democracy, institutions must not only be impartial but must also be seen to be impartial.

"The timing of this action raises legitimate questions. If investigations had been ongoing for months, why take such a drastic step on the eve of an election? In a democracy, institutions must not only be impartial but must also be seen to be impartial," Obi stated. He warned that a loss of credibility and independence by public institutions would have serious consequences for Nigeria, regardless of changing governments.

“

If there is evidence of wrongdoing, the Constitution provides a clear path: seek the appropriate orders from a competent court. Due process is the foundation of justice. No agency should exercise powers beyond those granted by law.

Obi emphasized that due process and constitutional provisions must be followed, urging agencies to operate strictly within the law. He called on all stakeholders to ensure the people of Osun State can freely determine their future through the ballot, free from intimidation or institutional interference. "Nigeria’s democracy was built on sacrifice. We must not allow it to be weakened by the misuse of institutions or the pursuit of political advantage," he added.

“

Nigeria’s democracy was built on sacrifice. We must not allow it to be weakened by the misuse of institutions or the pursuit of political advantage.