BREAKING: EFCC Releases Former Sokoto Governor Tambuwal 

BREAKING: EFCC Releases Former Sokoto Governor Tambuwal

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released former Sokoto State Governor and serving senator, Aminu Tambuwal, following his arrest over allegations of withdrawing ₦189 billion during his tenure.

Tambuwal’s detention sparked widespread criticism from leading opposition figures, who described the move as a politically motivated attempt to intimidate members of the opposition coalition.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and other political leaders condemned the arrest, calling it an attack on democracy and due process.

In a statement on Monday, Obi said the anti-corruption fight in Nigeria must be transparent and devoid of political bias to earn public trust.

“The arrest and interrogation of the former Governor of Sokoto State, Rt Honourable Aminu Tambuwal, by the EFCC, has opened up an existing contradiction in the fight against corruption,” Obi stated. “The sincerity of leaders is what is needed to tackle corruption in our society. I look forward to the time when the anti-corruption fight in this country will be under one law that applies to all, no matter who is involved, and not one targeting political opponents and perceived enemies of the incumbent government.”

Obi urged anti-graft agencies to uphold the rule of law and operate without prejudice, stressing that the public must see fairness and consistency in their operations.

“The rules of evidence and fact must replace impressions and preconceptions. In a credible fight against corruption, the public must be convinced that the rules are even and the subjects are not arbitrarily selected by political convenience,” he added.

While the EFCC has not issued a detailed statement on the outcome of Tambuwal’s interrogation, political analysts say the development is likely to heighten tensions between the government and the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.