Nigeria’s political landscape has been jolted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) interrogation of former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal over alleged N189 billion fraudulent withdrawals, sparking accusations of political witch-hunt from the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC). The development comes as the ADC-led coalition, positioning itself against President Bola Tinubu’s reelection bid, claims three of its key former governors have received EFCC invitations in what it calls a coordinated attempt to weaken their 2027 challenge.
Breaking Down the Crisis:
✔ Tambuwal’s Detention: Questioned for 6+ hours over suspected money laundering violations
✔ ADC’s Allegation: Claims EFCC is reviving old cases against opposition figures while ignoring ruling party allies
✔ EFCC’s Stance: Maintains investigations are evidence-based, not political
✔ Coalition Cracks: Peter Obi’s supporters complain of being sidelined in ADC decision-making
Why This Matters
• 2027 Shadow War: Raises concerns about state agencies being weaponized
• Opposition Unity Test: ADC coalition already facing internal rifts
• Public Trust: EFCC’s neutrality questioned amid selective probe accusations
Who’s Involved?
→ Aminu Tambuwal: Ex-Sokoto governor, key ADC ally
→ ADC Leadership: Alleges three ex-govs targeted
→ Peter Obi’s Camp: Frustrated over exclusion from coalition decisions
→ EFCC: Insists probes are mandate-driven
What Next?
→ More opposition figures likely summoned
→ Legal battles if charges are filed
→ Coalition survival in doubt as defections grow
