Makinde says EFCC actions against Osun threaten democracy

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has accused the Federal Government of using federal agencies to weaken states controlled by the opposition. He claims that the recent actions by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission were motivated by politics.

In a statement on his X handle on Thursday, Makinde criticized what he called the rising use of federal agencies to disrupt governance in states not controlled by the ruling party. He warned that such actions pose a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

“The increasing use of federal institutions to disrupt governance in opposition states in Nigeria is condemnable,” he said.

Makinde emphasized that while every government deserves scrutiny, using anti-corruption agencies to target specific states or officials undermines public confidence in these institutions.

“As I said in my last newsletter, no government is above scrutiny but when institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) are used to witch hunt specific states or public office holders, it shows their investigations are selective and erodes public trust in these institutions,” he stated.

The governor also criticized the alleged freezing of a state government account, calling it unlawful.

“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,” he said.

Makinde further claimed that the timing of this action suggests an attempt to influence the upcoming Osun State governorship election.

“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,” he added.

He urged federal agencies to be neutral and perform their duties without political pressure.

“Federal institutions must remain faithful to their constitutional mandate by acting with fairness, professionalism and political neutrality at all times,” Makinde said.

The governor also called on Nigerians, civil society groups, and the international community to stay alert. He stressed that democracy cannot grow where institutions are seen as tools for political intimidation.

“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,” he said.