Adeleke Drops N2bn EFCC Lawsuit Following President Tinubu’s Direct Intervention

Following his successful re-election, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered the state’s Attorney-General to formally withdraw the N2 billion lawsuit filed against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The high-profile legal battle flared up when the anti-graft agency froze the Osun State Government’s statutory allocation bank accounts as part of an inquiry into state fund management. The move sparked intense friction, with the state government challenging the restriction in court and describing the action as a politically motivated attempt to derail state operations right before the governorship election.

The tension eased after President Bola Tinubu personally intervened in the dispute. Addressing the situation, the President expressed concern over the timing of the freeze, emphasizing that federal law enforcement actions must remain neutral and should not undermine public confidence in democratic elections. Consequently, the President directed the EFCC to return to court to vacate the restriction.

Confirming the case’s withdrawal during a television appearance, Governor Adeleke stated that a personal phone conversation with President Tinubu was enough to settle the matter amicably. He noted that he is putting the incident behind him, maintaining that top presidential officials were likely unaware of the initial account freeze and attributing the ordeal to political opponents seeking to disrupt his administration.