Former governor of Sokoto State and senator representing Sokoto South Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has promised not to be silenced by what he termed as intimidation and blackmail following his release on bail by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The EFCC interrogated Tambuwal and detained him for a night over an alleged N189 billion fraud. He was later released under administrative bail.
Tambuwal, who returned to Sokoto on Thursday to a hero’s welcome from thousands of supporters, spoke to the roaring audience at his home, vowing to continue the struggle for “equitable and democratic governance” in the state.
“I cannot be intimidated or blackmailed. I believe I shall be vindicated, and victory shall be ours,” he declared, drawing loud chants of solidarity from his supporters.
The EFCC stated that it was probing Tambuwal over alleged misappropriation of N189bn during his tenure as governor.
However, the opposition African Democratic Congress characterised the timing of the probe as a political witch-hunt aimed at weakening opposition forces ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Tambuwal recounted his interaction with the EFCC, saying he accepted the agency’s invitation on August 6 but was denied release on personal recognition, despite his credentials as a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term governor, and sitting senator.
“They insisted I must provide two top civil servants as sureties. My request was turned down. Despite being accompanied by three senior advocates of Nigeria, I was remanded in Cell N23,” he said.
The former governor accused the Sokoto State government of setting up a “kangaroo investigative committee” against him, claiming that no competent authority had proven him guilty of any misconduct.
Tambuwal’s obstinate stance comes as political tensions in Sokoto rise, and he has become a rallying point for opposition groups preparing for future political clashes.
