Tambuwal Granted Bail by EFCC Amid N189 Billion Fraud Probe
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, on administrative bail following his interrogation over an alleged N189 billion fraud. He was released on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, after being detained overnight.
Here are the key details of the development:
The Accusation: Tambuwal, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023 and is currently a senator representing Sokoto South, is being investigated for alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals totaling N189 billion during his tenure.
The Violation: The EFCC claims these withdrawals were a "flagrant violation" of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Detention and Release: Tambuwal honored an invitation to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Monday, August 11, where he was questioned and held overnight. He was released after fulfilling the conditions for administrative bail.
Bail Conditions: As part of his bail conditions, the EFCC has reportedly seized his passport to prevent him from leaving the country while the investigation is ongoing.
Political Context: The detention has been met with significant criticism from opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi. They have accused the EFCC of engaging in a politically motivated witch-hunt to intimidate the opposition. In response, the EFCC has maintained that its anti-graft war is non-partisan and that it investigates all allegations irrespective of political affiliation.
