President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately take legal steps to reverse the court order that froze the bank accounts of the Osun State Government.
According to a statement from the Presidency, the President instructed the anti-graft agency to approach the court without delay to vacate the order and discontinue any related actions connected to the account freeze.
President Tinubu expressed concern over the timing of the development, stating that although the EFCC acted within its legal mandate under a valid court order, the decision came at a politically sensitive period.
He said he was “deeply embarrassed” by the situation, explaining that actions taken by federal institutions are often perceived by the public as being directly influenced by the Presidency, even when he has no prior knowledge or involvement.
The President reiterated his commitment to preserving the operational independence of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies. He emphasized that throughout his administration, he has deliberately avoided interfering with the activities of the EFCC and other investigative bodies, allowing them to perform their constitutional duties professionally and without political influence.
Despite this commitment, Tinubu stressed that the timing of the court order was inappropriate, especially with the Osun State governorship election just days away.
He warned that no action by any federal institution should create the impression that the Federal Government is attempting to influence or interfere with the democratic process.
The President maintained that protecting the credibility and transparency of elections remains a priority and directed the EFCC to act swiftly in ensuring that the account freeze does not cast doubt on the fairness of the forthcoming governorship poll.
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The development is expected to ease political tensions in Osun State as preparations for the election enter their final stages.
