Presidency denies Atiku’s claims of EFCC probe, calls allegations baseless
The Presidency has dismissed allegations by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that he is being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), calling his claims “baseless” and “a desperate attempt to remain politically relevant.”
Atiku had alleged on Thursday that the EFCC was probing him over financial dealings linked to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. However, in a statement released on Friday, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, refuted the claims, accusing Atiku of relying on social media gossip.
“These claims, circulated through his media office, are false and reflect a troubling pattern of relying on social media gossip over substance,” Onanuga said. “It is disheartening that a politician of Atiku’s stature would lend credibility to baseless speculation just to remain politically relevant.”
The statement further asserted that President Tinubu is focused on addressing national challenges and has no time for distractions.
“Atiku’s allegations are infantile and a transparent ploy to deflect from his political setbacks,” the Presidency stated. “Since his defeat in the 2023 presidential election, the former Vice President has failed to assume the dignified role of an elder statesman, choosing instead to engage in divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations.”
The Presidency also reaffirmed the EFCC’s independence, stating that the agency operates within its statutory mandate without external influence.
“We urge Atiku Abubakar to redirect his energy toward initiatives that foster unity, economic progress, and democratic stability—qualities Nigeria urgently needs,” the statement concluded.
