Former Sokoto State governor and serving senator, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has vowed not to be silenced by what he described as “intimidation and blackmail” following his detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged N189 billion fraud.
Tambuwal, who was questioned by the EFCC and held overnight before being granted administrative bail, returned to Sokoto on Thursday to a rousing welcome from thousands of supporters.
Addressing the crowd at his residence, he pledged to continue advocating 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 to loud chants of solidarity.
The EFCC confirmed it is investigating the former governor over alleged misappropriation of N189 billion during his tenure.
The opposition African Democratic Congress has dismissed the probe as a political witch-hunt intended to weaken opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections.
Recounting his encounter with the anti-graft agency, Tambuwal said he honoured an invitation on August 6 but was denied release on personal recognition despite his status as a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term governor, and serving 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.
Tambuwal accused the Sokoto State government of orchestrating a “kangaroo investigative committee” against him, insisting no competent authority had found him guilty of any offence.