The Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) has strongly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the reported freezing of the Osun State Government’s bank accounts barely 10 days before the state’s governorship election, describing the development as a dangerous threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, COPDEM alleged that the anti-graft agency has increasingly acted in the political interest of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rather than maintaining the independence expected of a national anti-corruption institution.
According to the coalition, the reported freezing of the Osun State Government’s accounts, allegedly without a valid court order, raises serious concerns about the neutrality of the EFCC and appears designed to cripple the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke on the eve of a crucial election.
COPDEM further alleged that the Commission has failed to demonstrate the same level of urgency in addressing alleged vote-buying during previous elections, including the Anambra governorship election, the FCT Area Council elections, and the Ekiti State governorship election. The coalition argued that despite widespread allegations and reports of cash inducement in those polls, no prominent political figures were arrested or prosecuted.
The organisation stated that the contrast between the reported action against the Osun State Government and the perceived lack of enforcement against alleged electoral offenders has deepened public suspicion that the EFCC is being selectively deployed against opposition-controlled governments while overlooking alleged infractions involving the ruling APC.
“An institution expected to serve as an impartial referee must never create the impression that it is taking sides in a democratic contest,” the coalition said, warning that actions perceived as politically motivated could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process and anti-corruption institutions.
COPDEM called on the EFCC to uphold the rule of law, respect due process, and discharge its constitutional responsibilities without fear or favour. The group also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, civil society organisations, and the international community to closely monitor developments in Osun State ahead of the governorship election.
As of the time of filing this report, the EFCC had not publicly responded to the allegations surrounding the reported freezing of the Osun State Government’s accounts. The Commission has consistently maintained that it performs its statutory duties independently, professionally, and without political interference. The opposition’s allegations remain contested and have not been independently verified.
