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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Nigeria’s democracy was built on sacrifice. We must not allow it to be weakened by the misuse of institutions or the pursuit of political advantage.
A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO
"In 2027, Nigerians will decide whether the country belongs to politicians or to all of us. Those supporting President Tinubu are busy selling the future of our children for money and personal gain" - Prophet Odumeje
The increasing use of federal institutions to disrupt governance in opposition states in Nigeria is condemnable. As I said in my last newsletter, no government is above scrutiny but when institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) are utilised to witch hunt specific states or public office holders, it indicates that their investigations are selective and erodes public trust in these institutions.
The “freezing” of an official state government account without due legal process goes beyond the powers vested in the EFCC by the laws of our land. And the timing of the action suggests that this is just another attempt by the federal government to unduly influence the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State.
Federal institutions must remain faithful to their constitutional mandate by acting with fairness, professionalism and political neutrality at all times. We therefore call on all Nigerians, civil society organisations and the international community to remain vigilant. Democracy cannot thrive where our institutions are perceived as instruments of political intimidation. Protecting the independence and credibility of our institutions is essential to preserving public trust and safeguarding Nigeria's democracy. The rule of law must prevail over the rule of politics.
Adeleke did so much for civil servants! I've never seen my mum happier! She got promoted and her salaries arrived at the appropriate time! God I'm so scared of Adeleke losing this election 💔 I'm worried about my mom and other civil servants
Osun LGA funds - He withheld it for over 2 years.
Osun State money - EFCC freezes their account, 10 days to election.
Guess who?
The undemocratic Fake NADECO activist.
The EFCC did not observe any suspicious movements when Yahaya Bello was paying his children's future school fees with the state treasury, but they can see suspicious movements with the Osun State account. We all know what we are doing in this country
They stopped LG allocation thinking LG workers will starve but Adeleke paid every single LG worker. Now that their plan has failed they have decided to freeze the State Government account because Adeleke will not stop paying salary and palliative to workers. We will vote Accord!
WE WILL NOT ALLOW APC TO TAKE OSUN BACK TO THE DAYS WHEN CIVIL SERVANTS HAD TO BEG THEIR NEIGHBOURS FOR FOOD.
I call on the good people of Osun State to brace up for just a few more days.
Those who once weaponized poverty by paying workers half salaries, leaving civil servants to struggle to feed their families, and denying our people access to basic necessities are desperate to return to inflict more pain.
We must never go back to those dark days.
On August 15, I urge every eligible voter to send a clear and resounding message that Osun has chosen the path of progress, compassion, and good governance.
Together, we will protect the mandate of the people and keep Osun moving forward ACCORDINGLY.