Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has cautioned that the nation’s democratic integrity is at risk when government bodies are utilized to pursue political rivals. His remarks followed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) decision to freeze the Osun State government’s primary account shortly before the gubernatorial election.
Represented by his aide Phrank Shaibu, Atiku characterized the move as a severe threat to democracy. He expressed alarm regarding the timing of the freeze, noting that halting a state’s operational funds so close to an election hinders governance, disrupts salary payments, and curtails essential services. According to Atiku, such actions project an image of intimidation that undermines the legitimacy of the electoral environment.
The former Vice President argued that while investigations are necessary, they must follow established legal frameworks. He warned that anti-corruption agencies risk appearing as partisan actors if they engage in activities that seem intended to sway election outcomes. Atiku emphasized that public faith in democratic processes depends on the professional and independent conduct of state institutions.
Furthermore, Atiku highlighted this incident as part of a recurring pattern involving the current administration’s treatment of states governed by the opposition. He urged agencies to maintain impartiality, insisting that the ultimate power to decide election results lies with the voters rather than through the administrative suppression of state governments.
