Aminu Tambuwal, senator representing Sokoto South and former governor of Sokoto State, has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of attempting to smear his reputation through politically motivated actions.
Speaking in Sokoto on Thursday during a reception held after his release from EFCC custody, Tambuwal said no amount of intimidation could erase his public service record.
He disclosed that he honoured the EFCC’s invitation on August 6 and returned on August 11 as requested, only to be asked to provide sureties before being granted bail.
Read also: EFCC releases Tambuwal on bail
“I went there willingly. I was questioned and allowed to go home on the first visit. But when I returned, they insisted I must produce two federal directors with letters of introduction,” he said.
Tambuwal explained that he appealed to be released on personal recognisance, citing his past roles as Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term governor, current senator, and Commander of the Federal Republic.
However, the EFCC chairman declined his request, despite interventions from his lawyer, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
He recounted spending the night in cell A23 before meeting the bail conditions and securing his release.
He said, ““I was taken to cell A23, where I rested till the next morning.”
The opposition lawmaker, a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, questioned the timing of his arrest, alleging it was part of a broader political agenda.
“Why now? Why at this particular time?” he asked, linking the move to what he described as a failed attempt by the Sokoto State government to indict him through a “kangaroo” commission of inquiry.
Tambuwal accused the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government of shielding its members from prosecution while targeting opposition figures.
“Once you join APC, all your sins are forgiven. Is that what we should do to be safe?” he asked.
Read also: ADC accuses EFCC of targeting David Mark after Tambuwal
Listing his political journey from minority leader in 2006 to his current role in the Senate, Tambuwal vowed to defend his integrity.
“I have served this country diligently. I will not allow anyone to distort my record or blackmail me,” he declared.
He also criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for sidelining the federal character principle in appointments and implementing policies he described as anti-people.
“The election was rigged. We will not allow that to happen again,” he said, pledging that the opposition will work to ensure free and fair polls in 2027.
“By the grace of God, we will end this misgovernance,” Tambuwal concluded.
