Wike Fires Back: EFCC Once Arrested Me Too, So Tambuwal’s Probe Isn’t Witch-Hunt

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has cautioned Nigerians against labeling the recent probe of former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as politically motivated.

Tambuwal was recently detained in Abuja over allegations of fraudulent cash withdrawals amounting to ₦189 billion.

Speaking in an interview with Channels Television, Wike emphasized that EFCC investigations are part of due process and should not automatically be interpreted as a political witch-hunt.

“People should stop saying Tambuwal is being persecuted simply because he is in the opposition,” Wike said. “Many Nigerians have been invited or investigated by the EFCC in the past, and it has nothing to do with politics. Tambuwal’s case is no different.”

Drawing from his personal experience, Wike revealed that he was arrested by the EFCC in 2008, barely a year after becoming Chief of Staff in Rivers State. Although he was charged to court, the case was later withdrawn for lack of evidence.

He explained that while some people at the time suggested political motives behind his arrest, he never accused anyone publicly, choosing instead to let the legal process clear his name.

“I’m not speaking for the EFCC, but Nigerians must stop this attitude,” Wike stressed. “I was arrested in 2008, taken to court, and we fought until the case was withdrawn. That didn’t mean it was politics.”