Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has warned against using the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) anti-corruption mandate as a tool for political intimidation, saying law enforcement actions must never cast doubt on the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic process.

 

Obi made the remark while reacting to the reported freezing of the Osun State Government’s bank accounts by the ‏Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), just days before the state’s governorship election.

 

Although he reiterated his support for a vigorous fight against corruption, Obi maintained that anti-graft agencies must carry out their responsibilities in a manner that is transparent, lawful and free from any perception of political interference.

 

He questioned the timing of the action, noting that if investigations had been ongoing for months, taking such a far-reaching step only days before an election was bound to raise concerns among members of the public.

 

According to him, democratic institutions must not only act impartially but must also be seen by Nigerians to be impartial, especially during an election period when public confidence is critical.

 

Obi also expressed concern over what he described as the growing perception that state institutions are increasingly being used to advance political interests, warning that such a trend could weaken the independence and credibility of public institutions.

 

He stressed that where there is evidence of wrongdoing, the Constitution provides clear legal procedures for investigation and prosecution through the courts, insisting that no agency should act outside the powers granted to it by law.

 

The former Anambra State governor urged all relevant authorities to ensure that every action taken ahead of the Osun governorship election strengthens, rather than undermines, public confidence in the electoral process. He added that the people of Osun should be allowed to choose their next governor freely, without intimidation or actions capable of creating doubts about the fairness of the election.

 

Obi further warned that Nigeria’s democracy, built on years of sacrifice, should not be weakened by the misuse of state institutions or the pursuit of political advantage, urging leaders and public institutions to remain committed to the rule of law and the principles of democratic governance.