A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his directive to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to unfreeze the bank accounts of Osun State.
Okonkwo argued that the President’s intervention raises questions about the independence of Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies, including the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
In a post shared on his X account, the constitutional lawyer described the President’s directive as “morally understandable” but “legally incorrect.”
“Even though the order from President Tinubu to the EFCC to unfreeze the Osun State account might seem morally reasonable, it is not legally correct,” he wrote.
Okonkwo further alleged that the directive reinforces concerns that federal institutions are not operating independently under the current administration.
“These show that none of our federal institutions is independent under Tinubu,” he stated.
The ADC chieftain also referenced previous comments by Cardinal John Onaiyekan, arguing that the President’s remarks suggested he was not fully aware of certain actions taken by government agencies.
According to Okonkwo, the development underscores the need for vigilance to protect the independence of institutions established to uphold the rule of law.
He also urged Nigerians to seek political change in the 2027 general elections.
“Rule of law is castrated under Tinubu. In 2027, Nigeria should experience a significant change,” he added.