Former Sokoto State Governor and current Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has vowed not to be silenced by what he called intimidation and blackmail, following his release on bail from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Tambuwal was detained overnight by the EFCC over an alleged N189 billion fraud during his tenure as governor. He was later released on administrative bail.
Upon his return to Sokoto on Thursday, Tambuwal was greeted by a massive crowd of supporters at his residence. Addressing them, he declared: “I cannot be intimidated or blackmailed. I believe I shall be vindicated, and victory shall be ours.”
The EFCC said its investigation into the alleged misappropriation is ongoing. However, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the probe, calling it a politically motivated move aimed at weakening opposition voices ahead of the 2027 elections.
Tambuwal recounted his experience with the EFCC, stating that despite his status as a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term governor, and current senator, he was denied release on personal recognition.
“They insisted on two senior civil servants as sureties. I was taken to Cell N23, even though I was accompanied by three Senior Advocates of Nigeria,” he said.
He also accused the Sokoto State government of targeting him through a “kangaroo investigative committee,” and emphasized that no competent authority has found him guilty of any wrongdoing.
His defiance has further energized the opposition in Sokoto, where he remains a key political figure ahead of the next election cycle.
