Tambuwal Released After Overnight EFCC Detention

Aminu Tambuwal, former governor of Sokoto State and current senator, has regained his freedom after spending a night in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Tambuwal was detained on Monday over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals totaling N189 billion, which reportedly contravened the Money Laundering (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Although the EFCC has not commented publicly on his release, Tambuwal was seen on Tuesday at his Abuja residence receiving visits from several prominent politicians.

The detention has sparked political reactions. Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar accused the EFCC of targeting Tambuwal for his opposition affiliation, claiming that the Bola Tinubu administration is using the anti-graft agency to pressure opposition figures to join the ruling party.

Similarly, Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, described Tambuwal’s detention as highlighting contradictions in the country’s anti-corruption efforts.