EFCC Interrogates Tambuwal, Heightens Tension in ADC’s 2027 Coalition

Tension is mounting within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) intensifies investigations into prominent opposition figures. Party leaders allege the moves are politically motivated, aimed at weakening the alliance seeking to unseat President Bola Tinubu.

On Monday, former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, who served from 2015 to 2023, appeared at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja around 11:30 a.m. for questioning over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals totalling ₦189 billion. According to an EFCC source, the transactions allegedly violated the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

EFCC officials confirmed Tambuwal’s detention as investigations continue but spokesperson Dele Oyewale declined to comment on the matter. In contrast, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi confirmed that three former governors within the coalition had been summoned by the commission, describing the move as an attempt to intimidate them and pressure them into abandoning the alliance.

In a statement, the ADC accused the EFCC of reopening stale cases against opposition politicians while ignoring allegations involving ruling party members. Abdullahi warned that “selective prosecution is the death of justice” arguing that the EFCC risked becoming “a department of the APC”.

The EFCC dismissed the claims as “untenable” and challenged the ADC to present evidence, insisting it remains non-partisan and committed to prosecuting anyone found guilty of wrongdoing.

Sources within the coalition described the move as a “brazen show of power,” adding to internal strain. In recent weeks, several high-profile politicians including former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, ex-Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha, have distanced themselves from the coalition and reaffirmed loyalty to the APC.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also put on hold plans to collect his ADC membership card amid speculation that former President Goodluck Jonathan may enter the 2027 race. Meanwhile, the Obidient Movement accused ADC leaders of marginalisation, claiming exclusion from key coalition decisions.

Amid the political turbulence, the ADC announced the resignation of National Chairman Ralph Okey Nwosu and endorsed Deputy National Chairman Nafiu Bala as Acting Chairman. Bala pledged to strengthen party structures, promote inclusivity, and forge strategic alliances ahead of the elections.