Makinde accuses FG of using EFCC to intimidate opposition states

By Adejayan Gbenga

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has accused the Federal Government of using federal institutions to undermine opposition-controlled states, alleging that recent actions by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) are politically motivated and threaten Nigeria’s democracy.

Makinde made the allegation in a statement posted on his X account on Thursday, where he condemned what he described as the growing use of federal agencies to disrupt governance in states controlled by opposition parties.

He said that while no government should be above investigation, anti-corruption agencies must not be used to selectively target certain states or public office holders, warning that such actions could weaken public confidence in democratic institutions.

The governor specifically criticised the alleged freezing of an official Osun State Government account by the EFCC, describing the action as unlawful and beyond the agency’s statutory powers if carried out without due legal process.

According to Makinde, the timing of the alleged action raises concerns that the Federal Government is attempting to influence the forthcoming Osun State governorship election, creating the impression that federal institutions are being used for partisan purposes.

He therefore urged all federal institutions to remain faithful to their constitutional responsibilities by acting with fairness, professionalism and political neutrality in the discharge of their duties.

Makinde also called on Nigerians, civil society organisations and the international community to remain vigilant, insisting that democracy cannot flourish where public institutions are perceived as tools of political intimidation.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu directed the EFCC on Thursday to immediately return to court to vacate the order freezing the bank accounts of the Osun State Government.