Panic in ADC as EFCC Grills Tambuwal Over ₦189bn, Targets More Coalition Leaders

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is in turmoil following reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has moved against several influential members of its 2027 opposition coalition. The group, which has vowed to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the next general election, says the anti-graft agency’s actions are politically motivated.

On Monday, former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, a prominent figure in the coalition, was interrogated at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals amounting to ₦189 billion. Tambuwal, who governed Sokoto State from 2015 to 2023, arrived at the commission’s office around 11:30 a.m. and was taken in for questioning by investigators.

Sources within the EFCC allege that the withdrawals violated the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. “Former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, is being held over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals to the tune of ₦189 billion,” one EFCC official disclosed. Another source confirmed he is in custody, adding that the investigation is ongoing.

ADC Alleges Political Witch-Hunt

The ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, confirmed that three former governors—key leaders in the coalition—have been summoned by the EFCC. While declining to name them, he alleged that the move was designed to force these individuals out of the coalition or intimidate them into silence.

In a strongly worded statement, Abdullahi accused the EFCC of reopening old cases against opposition politicians while ignoring allegations involving members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). “These are not fresh cases arising from new evidence but old files revived to intimidate key opposition figures,” he stated.

The ADC warned that selective prosecution erodes public trust in anti-corruption institutions. “It appears that in today’s Nigeria, one’s guilt or innocence depends on one’s party membership, not evidence,” the statement read. The party urged Nigerians, civil society organisations, and the independent media to resist what it described as a “dangerous slide into dictatorship.”

EFCC Denies Bias, Dares ADC to Provide Proof

In response, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale dismissed the ADC’s claims as “untenable and ridiculous,” challenging the party to provide factual evidence to support its accusations. “The commission is non-partisan and non-sectarian. Those who did the crime should be ready to have their time in court,” Oyewale said.

The EFCC maintained that it operates strictly within its mandate and does not serve as an extension of any political party. Officials also insisted that allegations under investigation are backed by existing records and evidence, not political affiliations.

Despite the EFCC’s rebuttal, sources within the opposition coalition told The Opitangloba Media that the agency’s actions have sparked widespread anxiety among members. One insider described it as “a brazen show of power” aimed at destabilising the coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.

Coalition Faces Internal Tensions

The EFCC’s crackdown comes amid growing fractures within the opposition coalition. In recent weeks, several top politicians have distanced themselves from the group, citing internal disagreements and a lack of inclusivity.

A document dated July 29, 2025, and signed by Tanko Yunusa, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, accused the coalition of marginalising its members despite their critical role in strengthening the bloc. Yunusa alleged that Peter Obi’s loyalists have been excluded from major decision-making meetings, creating mistrust within the coalition.

“This creates an impression of marginalisation and undermines trust, which is essential for building a sustainable partnership,” Yunusa stated. The tensions have raised questions about the coalition’s ability to present a united front in the 2027 presidential race.

Peter Obi’s Position Remains Unclear

When contacted, Yunusa said Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, would decide on joining the coalition “at the right time.” According to him, Obi has made it clear that he remains a Labour Party member and is not struggling for relevance within the opposition alliance.

“His Excellency Peter Obi has said that he’s joining the coalition for the 2027 general election. At the moment, he’s a member of the Labour Party. When the time comes, he will take his decision,” Yunusa explained.

Political analysts warn that without resolving both the EFCC’s pressure and its internal divisions, the ADC-led coalition may face an uphill battle against the APC in 2027. For now, the opposition’s focus remains split between defending its members from legal probes and mending its fractured alliances.