Political Tussle Traced Back to Tambuwal's Declined Involvement with Tinubu's Faction - Insider Reports
Aminu Tambuwal, the former governor of Sokoto State and current senator, found himself in the crosshairs of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on August 11, 2025, following allegations of fraudulent cash withdrawals totalling ₦189 billion during his tenure from 2015 to 2023.
The EFCC accused Tambuwal of violating the Money Laundering (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022, as the funds were withdrawn incrementally from three government accounts: the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), Government House, and Secretary to the State Government accounts.
Tambuwal was arrested, interrogated, and held in EFCC custody while the investigation continued, with several government officials and cashiers identified as possible witnesses or co-defendants.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Tambuwal's current party, has condemned the investigations as politically motivated, targeting opposition politicians selectively as part of a broader political witch-hunt. However, no concrete evidence or detailed reports have linked President Bola Tinubu's team directly to exerting pressure on the EFCC investigation.
Meanwhile, sources close to Tambuwal claim that some stakeholders linked to the federal government approached him to join President Tinubu's train. Details about the nature of these approaches and the response from Tambuwal were not disclosed.
In a surprising turn of events, Emeka Ihedioha, the former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and ex-governor of Imo State, received an EFCC invitation this week. The source suspects that the EFCC's interest may be related to World Bank funds disbursed during Tambuwal's tenure, as well as a similar approach made six months earlier to Ihedioha to join the Tinubu "train."
As the investigation unfolds, Tambuwal's associates met the bail conditions, but he was kept in custody by the EFCC until the next day. The EFCC has not provided specific details about the allegations against Tambuwal, leading to speculation about the motives behind the investigation.
In response to the EFCC's inquiries, Tambuwal suggested that the EFCC contact the state to check if there were concerns about his administration. He also consulted his associates about working with the government given the country's poverty and insecurity, particularly in the North.
The money was paid through bank accounts, and Tambuwal was given a clean bill of health by the World Bank. However, the EFCC has not released any official statement confirming or denying these claims.
As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen whether Tambuwal and Ihedioha will face charges or if the allegations against them will be proven or debunked. The public will be closely watching the developments in this high-profile case.
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