Presidency Dismisses Atiku Claims On EFCC Probe As Baseless And Distracting

Presidency Dismisses Atiku Claims On EFCC Probe As Baseless And Distracting

The Presidency has strongly refuted claims made by Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleging that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is investigating him over financial transactions involving the Lagos State government.

Atiku had earlier stated that the EFCC was probing his financial dealings in relation to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. However, in a statement issued on Friday, March 28, 2025, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, described the allegations as unfounded and misleading, accusing Atiku of resorting to baseless accusations and social media rumors in an effort to remain politically relevant.…READ MORE…

Onanuga also criticized Atiku for failing to embrace a statesman-like role following his 2023 electoral defeat, instead opting to spread division through unverified accusations and divisive rhetoric. The presidency emphasized that the EFCC is an independent body that functions within its legal mandate without external interference.

Furthermore, Onanuga reiterated that President Bola Tinubu remains focused on tackling Nigeria’s national challenges and advancing the country’s development, without being distracted by such petty political claims.

The statement read: “The Presidency is aware of the false allegations made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who claims to be under investigation by the EFCC regarding unverified financial dealings involving Lagos State. These accusations, which have been disseminated through his media office, are unsubstantiated and reflect a troubling tendency to rely on social media rumors rather than credible information.”

“It’s disappointing that a politician of Atiku’s stature would resort to such tactics to maintain relevance. The President remains committed to addressing Nigeria’s growth and stability, and he will not be diverted by these trivial distractions.”

The Presidency urged Atiku to shift his focus to efforts that promote national unity, economic progress, and democratic stability, which the country critically needs at this time.

Onanuga also clarified that the EFCC, being an independent institution, operates free from any external influence. Any suggestion to the contrary undermines the agency’s professionalism and the rule of law.