The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained former Sokoto State governor, Aminu Tambuwal, over alleged fraudulent withdrawals totaling N189 billion during his tenure. Tambuwal, who honoured the commission’s invitation on Monday morning, was taken into custody after reportedly failing to provide satisfactory explanations for the funds, in alleged violation of the Money Laundering (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Sources say he will remain in EFCC custody until he offers “meaningful explanations.” Former Imo State governor Emeka Ihedioha has also been invited by the commission for questioning this week over unrelated matters.
Associates of Tambuwal allege the probe is politically motivated, claiming pressure was mounted months ago for him to align with President Tinubu’s camp — a request he declined. They also point to his alliance with Atiku Abubakar and the opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which aims to challenge the APC in 2027.
The ADC has accused the EFCC of selective investigations targeting opposition figures, calling it a “dangerous slide into dictatorship” and urging Nigerians to resist the politicisation of anti-graft agencies.
