By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reaffirmed his commitment to defending the rights of Nigerians allegedly facing harassment under the Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) federal government.
Disclosing this on his X handle on Monday shortly after meeting with Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, Atiku described the current administration as an “emerging dictatorship,” pledging that efforts to safeguard democratic values in the country will be intensified.
“We will be unrelenting in defending the rights of every Nigerian being harassed by anti-democratic forces of the Tinubu-led APC administration,” Atiku stated.
He further emphasized that the coalition currently being mobilized is geared towards “rescuing our democracy from the stranglehold” of authoritarian tendencies, adding that all efforts will be deliberate and strategic in the quest to protect Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The meeting comes amid growing concerns from opposition leaders over what they describe as shrinking civic space and increasing political intimidation under the current government.
Precise Post recalls that in August 2025, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) invited formerly governor of Sokoto State, and now serving senator – Senator Aminu Tambuwal for questioning over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals totaling ₦189 billion between 2015 and 2021, in violation of the Money Laundering (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022 .
The EFCC’s financial profiling showed that accounts—including the FAAC, Government House, and Secretary to the State Government, received cumulative inflows of ₦567.16 billion, of which about ₦189.16 billion were allegedly diverted to individuals, companies, and government officials . Some cashiers and government officials have been identified as other suspects in the probe.
Tambuwal was detained at EFCC custody in Abuja starting August 11, 2025, and spent over 24 hours in custody before being granted administrative bail on August 12. As part of the bail terms, his passport was seized .
In statements after his release, Tambuwal denied wrongdoing, calling the EFCC allegations politically motivated, and claimed his appearances at EFCC were voluntary. He appealed to be released on self-recognition based on his public service record, though stricter bail requirements were imposed instead .
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) both condemned the EFCC action as selective and politically driven, aimed at dismantling opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
