Makinde condemns EFCC freezing of Osun Gov’t accounts

By Taiwo Scholarstica

Oyo State Governor, Engr.Seyi Makinde has criticized the freezing of the Osun State Government’s accounts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the action as a threat to democratic governance and the independence of public institutions.

Makinde expressed concern over what he described as the growing use of federal institutions to interfere in the affairs of opposition-controlled states.

He argued that while public officeholders and government institutions should remain subject to scrutiny, law enforcement agencies must not be perceived as tools for political persecution.

The governor said the decision to freeze the state’s accounts raises serious questions about due process and the limits of the EFCC’s powers.

According to him, the timing of the action coming ahead of the forthcoming Osun State governorship election could undermine public confidence in the neutrality of federal institutions and fuel concerns about political interference.

“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,” he said.

Makinde stressed that democratic institutions must remain independent and operate strictly within the confines of the law.

He maintained that fairness, professionalism, and political neutrality are essential for sustaining public trust and preserving Nigeria’s democratic system.

The governor also urged Nigerians, civil society organizations, and members of the international community to closely monitor developments, insisting that the credibility of government institutions must be protected at all times.

He warned that democracy would suffer if public agencies are viewed as instruments of political intimidation rather than impartial bodies serving the interests of the nation.

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

Makinde called for strict adherence to the rule of law, saying only transparent and impartial institutions can guarantee public confidence and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.