Atiku Claims EFCC Arrest Of Tambuwal Was Politically Driven

Former Nigerian Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has asserted that the recent apprehension of ex-governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is rooted in political interests.

In a statement on X, Atiku argued that the move reflects a broader campaign by the administration under President Bola Tinubu aimed at silencing dissent and diminishing the strength of opposition parties.

He expressed concerns that the current leadership was exploiting the anti-corruption narrative to intimidate opposition figures into defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“It is as though anyone who associates with the opposition is a target for phantom corruption allegations, and as soon as they are coerced into the political agenda of President Bola Tinubu, their ‘sins’ are forgiven.

“That, definitely, is not how to build institutions. That, certainly, is not how to fight the monster of corruption. Indeed, such tendencies provide the stimulant for corruption to thrive,” Atiku said.

Atiku emphasized his past involvement in establishing the EFCC, lamenting what he sees as a deviation from its intended purpose, as the agency is allegedly being manipulated for political gain.

He cautioned that these tactics erode the credibility of national institutions and could foster an environment where corruption flourishes unchecked.

According to him, recent trends indicate that anti-graft bodies are being turned into instruments to corner political opponents, compelling them to switch allegiance to the ruling party, a development he believes signals a dangerous tilt toward authoritarian rule.

He called on citizens, advocacy groups, and the global community to raise their voices against the weaponization of the anti-corruption fight.

“While the genuine fight against corruption is a matter that requires the total support of all Nigerians, the objectification of it as a political agenda should be roundly condemned by all in civil society spaces and friends of Nigeria in the international community.

“We have in recent times witnessed the use of anti-corruption agencies in coercing political leaders into the ruling party. Our assurance to Nigerians is that we would never succumb to these anti-democratic machinations of railroading our people into a one-party dictatorship,” Atiku wrote.