Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress, has accused President Bola Tinubu of undermining the autonomy of Nigeria’s anti-graft agencies. This criticism follows the President’s recent directive to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to lift the freeze on Osun State’s bank accounts.
The constitutional lawyer argued via social media that while the move might appear reasonable on moral grounds, it lacks a solid legal basis. Okonkwo asserted that the intervention confirms that the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) currently function as extensions of the executive branch rather than independent bodies. He further alleged that the President uses these agencies to exert pressure on political rivals.
Referring to comments made by Cardinal Onaiyekan, Okonkwo suggested that the President’s aides are presenting a distorted view of national affairs to him. He cited various instances of presidential intervention in institutional matters, including directives regarding INEC and the ICPC, as evidence that the rule of law is being weakened under the current administration. He concluded by calling for increased civic vigilance ahead of the 2027 elections.
