Nigeria’s popular opposition figure and presidenntial candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress Peter Obi, has condmened the controversial freezing of the Osun State Government’s bank accounts by the Federal Government controlled Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), warning that “Nigeria’s democracy was built on sacrifice and we must not allow it to be weakened by the misuse of institutions or the pursuit of political advantage.”
Obi, in a statement posted on his official X handle, said he supports a strong fight against corruption but cautioned that such efforts must not become instruments for political intimidation or suppression of democracy.
Outrage had followed Wednesday’s freezing of Osun State Government accounts by the EFCC, ten days before the state’s governorship election.
Reacting, Obi said the timing of the action raised questions that needed to be addressed in the interest of public confidence and democratic integrity.
“I have always supported a relentless fight against corruption. However, that fight must never become a tool for political intimidation or the suppression of democracy,” he said.
He noted that no institution, regardless of its importance, should operate in a manner that creates the impression of interfering with the electoral process.
According to him, if investigations into alleged wrongdoing had been ongoing for months, taking such a major step close to an election date required explanation.
“The timing of this action raises legitimate questions. If investigations had been ongoing for months, why take such a drastic step on the eve of an election? In a democracy, institutions must not only be impartial but must also be seen to be impartial,” Obi stated.
He expressed concern over what he described as a growing perception that state institutions were being used to achieve political objectives and secure power.
Obi warned that while governments may change, the loss of credibility and independence by public institutions would have serious consequences for the country.
“If there is evidence of wrongdoing, the Constitution provides a clear path: seek the appropriate orders from a competent court. Due process is the foundation of justice. No agency should exercise powers beyond those granted by law,” he said.
He urged relevant authorities to act strictly within the provisions of the Constitution and ensure that nothing undermines the credibility of the Osun governorship election.
Obi urged those in power at the center to allow the people of Osun State to freely determine their future through the ballot without intimidation or institutional interference.