Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the reported freezing of the Osun State Government’s bank accounts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the development as one capable of raising questions about the integrity of democratic institutions.
In a statement posted on his X account on Thursday, Obi said while he remained a firm supporter of the fight against corruption, anti-graft efforts must never be used in a manner that could be perceived as political intimidation or an attempt to undermine the democratic process.
“I have followed with deep concern the developments surrounding the reported freezing of the bank accounts of the Osun State Government by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), coming just days before the governorship election.”
He stressed that combating corruption should be pursued within the confines of the law and without creating the impression that state institutions were being deployed for political purposes.
“Let me reiterate that 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. No institution, however important, should be used in a manner that creates the impression of influencing the electoral process.”
The former Anambra State governor questioned the timing of the EFCC’s action, noting that if investigations had indeed been ongoing for several months, the decision to freeze the accounts so close to the election was bound to attract public scrutiny.
“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 further warned against what he described as an increasing perception that public institutions were being used to achieve political objectives, saying such a trend could weaken public confidence in democratic governance.
“What is increasingly troubling is the growing perception that state institutions are being deployed to achieve political ends and secure power at all costs. This is dangerous for our democracy. Governments come and go, but once institutions lose their independence and credibility, the nation suffers.”
Calling for strict adherence to constitutional provisions, Obi maintained that allegations of wrongdoing should be handled through established legal procedures.
“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 urged all relevant authorities to ensure that the forthcoming Osun governorship election is conducted in an atmosphere free from intimidation or institutional interference.
“I call on all relevant authorities to act strictly within the Constitution and ensure that nothing undermines the credibility of the Osun Governorship Election. The people of Osun must be allowed to freely determine their future through the ballot, without intimidation or institutional interference.”