President Bola Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately return to court and vacate the order freezing the bank accounts of the Osun State Government, citing concerns over the timing of the action ahead of the state’s governorship election.

A statement by the president on Thursday, said he became aware that the anti-graft agency had obtained a court order on August 5, 2026, freezing the state’s accounts. While reaffirming his commitment to the independence of anti-corruption agencies, Tinubu said the move could create the perception that federal institutions were being used to influence the electoral process.

“I remain committed to the operational independence of our anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies,” the President stated, adding that the timing of the EFCC’s action was inappropriate given the proximity of the governorship election. He further described himself as “deeply embarrassed” by the development because actions taken by federal institutions are often perceived by the public as having presidential approval.

Tinubu subsequently directed the EFCC to immediately approach the court to vacate the freezing order and discontinue any legal action against the Osun State Government in connection with the matter. He stressed that nothing should be done to undermine public confidence in the credibility and fairness of the forthcoming election.

The directive follows widespread reactions after reports emerged that the EFCC had secured a court order freezing the state’s accounts, a move that generated political controversy and concerns about its potential impact on governance and electoral integrity.

The development is expected to ease tensions in Osun State as preparations continue for the governorship election scheduled to hold in the coming days.