By Mercy Aikoye
The Imole Campaign Council (TICC) has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of using its anti-corruption powers to influence the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State, following the reported freezing of the state government’s accounts.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee of the council, Mr. Bamidele Salam, described the action as an abuse of authority, alleging that it was aimed at frustrating the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke, who is seeking re-election.
According to the council, the timing of the alleged freezing of the state’s accounts—barely days before the governorship election—raises concerns about political interference rather than a genuine anti-corruption exercise.
The council argued that restricting the state’s access to its funds could disrupt governance by affecting the payment of workers’ salaries and pensions, execution of infrastructure projects, delivery of healthcare services, and other essential government responsibilities.
TICC further alleged that the action amounted to an attempt to place economic pressure on the people of Osun in order to influence their political decisions ahead of the election.
While reaffirming its support for transparency and accountability in public service, the council insisted that anti-corruption agencies must not be used as instruments of political persecution or intimidation.
It urged the EFCC to immediately reverse the alleged decision to freeze the state’s accounts, maintaining that governance should not be disrupted because of the electoral process.
The council also called on the commission to remain neutral and allow the people of Osun to freely determine their next governor through the ballot.
