EFCC Begins Arrest of ADC Top Leaders Ahead of 2027, Party Breaks Silence
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of political intimidation, following the agency’s questioning of senior opposition figures just two years before the 2027 general election.
Panic erupted within the coalition, formed to challenge President Bola Tinubu, after former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal was grilled at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Monday, August 11. The probe centers on alleged cash withdrawals totaling ₦189 billion, which investigators claim violated the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
An EFCC insider told reporters that the withdrawals were “in clear violation of the law.” While the commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, declined to give details, he confirmed the investigation was ongoing.
ADC Cries Foul
ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi said three former governors in the coalition had been invited for questioning, describing the move as a deliberate attempt to weaken the opposition.
“This is a clear attempt to intimidate our members and weaken our resolve. We are determined to rescue Nigeria,” Abdullahi stated.
In an official statement, the ADC accused the EFCC of acting like “a department of the APC” by reviving old cases against opposition politicians while ignoring similar allegations against ruling party members.
“The EFCC is meant to serve Nigerians, not a political party,” the statement read.
EFCC Denies Bias
Responding to the allegations, EFCC’s Oyewale dismissed the claims as “untenable and ridiculous.”
“Where are the facts? Our mandate is to fight financial crime, not to protect or attack any political party,” he said.
Coalition Cracks Begin to Show
The EFCC clampdown appears to have worsened internal rifts within the opposition alliance. Some members have distanced themselves, with Obidient Movement National Coordinator Tanko Yunusa accusing the ADC of sidelining Peter Obi’s allies from decision-making.
Former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode reaffirmed loyalty to the APC, quashing rumors of a defection to the ADC. Other political heavyweights including former Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi, ex-SGF Boss Mustapha, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have also stepped back from coalition activities.
Leadership Changes in the ADC
Following the resignation of National Chairman Ralph Okey Nwosu, Deputy National Chairman Nafiu Bala has taken over in an acting capacity, promising to “strengthen internal democracy and party unity.”
“I will lead with integrity, wisdom, and dedication. Together, we will build a stronger and more effective party,” Bala pledged.
