The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken former Sokoto State Governor and current Senator, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, into custody as part of an investigation into suspicious cash withdrawals reportedly totaling ₦189 billion during his tenure. The alleged transactions are said to have violated the Money Laundering (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Tambuwal arrived at the EFCC’s Abuja headquarters around 11:30 a.m. on Monday, where he was immediately ushered into an interrogation room. Although detained, it remains unclear whether he will be held overnight or released on administrative bail. EFCC investigators are probing alleged unauthorized cash withdrawals amounting to ₦189 billion made during Tambuwal’s governorship (2015–2023). The funds purportedly ended up in private accounts linked to political associates. The withdrawals are deemed to be in direct breach of the Money Laundering (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s spokesperson, has refrained from providing comments while the investigation is ongoing.
Aminu Tambuwal previously served as Speaker of the House of Representatives before becoming Governor of Sokoto State. He now represents Sokoto South as a Senator. He has been a notable figure within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and was once a presidential aspirant.
This is not the first time Tambuwal has faced scrutiny. In 2022, the EFCC had raised concerns about alleged diversions of public funds during his administration — accusations he publicly denied, citing the state’s high rating in fiscal transparency by the World Bank.
The current investigation, involving the immensely large sum of ₦189 billion, marks one of the most significant financial probes into a current lawmaker. The outcome could have broad political ramifications, influencing discourse on public accountability and governance.
The EFCC is expected to gather more evidence and decide whether to formally charge Tambuwal. He may be released on administrative bail or remain in custody depending on the progress of the probe.
