ADC Slams EFCC Over Tambuwal’s Arrest, Alleges Political Targeting Ahead of 2027

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of being used as a political tool by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to target opposition leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The condemnation follows the arrest and questioning of former Sokoto State Governor and current Senator, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals amounting to ₦189 billion during his tenure from 2015 to 2023.

ADC: EFCC Now Operating as APC’s Enforcement Arm

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC claimed the EFCC has launched selective investigations targeting opposition figures while dropping cases against defectors to the APC.

“The EFCC was created to defend public trust impartially. Today, it operates like a department of the APC,” the statement read.

The ADC cited recent actions against Tambuwal, former Senate President David Mark, and former Imo Governor Emeka Ihedioha as evidence of political bias. The party noted that the EFCC recently requested documents from the Imo State Government relating to Ihedioha’s short tenure and is now reviewing records from Mark’s time in the Senate.

Atiku: Tinubu’s Govt Weaponizing Anti-Corruption Fight

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned Tambuwal’s detention, calling it part of a broader strategy by President Bola Tinubu to weaken the opposition.

“Anyone in the opposition is targeted with phantom corruption charges. Once they join APC, their sins are forgotten,” Atiku said in a post on X.

Atiku, a key figure in establishing the EFCC during his vice presidency, warned against the politicization of the agency, saying it could erode Nigeria’s democracy and lead to a one-party dictatorship.

ADC Accuses Tinubu, APC of Intimidating Opposition Leaders

Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, accused the APC of coercing opposition leaders through state institutions.

“It didn’t start with Tambuwal, and it won’t end with him,” Ibe said, alleging the government aims to manipulate the electoral process ahead of 2027.

He described President Tinubu’s leadership as bordering on dictatorship and urged Nigerians to reclaim their democracy.

Tanko: Tinubu Govt Out to Crush Democracy

Dr. Yunusa Tanko, interim National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement and former LP campaign spokesperson, also accused the Tinubu administration of systematically destroying democratic institutions.

“This government is out to destroy democracy. The voice of the people is being suppressed,” Tanko said in an interview.

He warned that the opposition should brace for more attacks and called on Nigerians and the international community to act before the situation worsens.

Tanko emphasized the importance of building grassroots political structures and vowed that the opposition would not shield corrupt individuals but insisted that the law must be applied fairly.

Analyst: EFCC Losing Credibility Due to Political Interference

Public affairs analyst and scholar at Peaceland University, Nduka Odo, criticized Tambuwal’s arrest as politically driven.

“Tambuwal left office in 2023. Why now? It’s clearly linked to his move to the ADC and the emerging opposition coalition,” Odo said.

He argued that the EFCC’s selective actions mirror the infamous statement by APC’s Adams Oshiomhole: “Once you join APC, your sins are forgiven.”

Odo also cited the stalled prosecution of former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello as proof of the agency’s compromised independence.

“If the EFCC is to be taken seriously, it must be shielded from political manipulation. Appointing its leadership should not be the president’s sole prerogative,” he added.

Calls for Reform Grow Louder

Across political and civil society lines, there is growing concern that the EFCC is straying from its core mandate. Critics are demanding institutional reforms to ensure its independence and prevent the abuse of anti-corruption efforts for political gain.

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, the tension between governance, opposition politics, and anti-corruption enforcement is set to intensify.