Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has warned that democracy is endangered when state institutions are perceived to be used against political opponents.

Reacting to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) decision to freeze the Osun State Government’s statutory allocation account just days before the governorship election, Atiku described the move as a serious threat to democratic governance.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku argued that freezing the state’s main operational account on the eve of an election could disrupt governance, delay salary payments, affect essential public services, and undermine public confidence in the credibility of the electoral process.

He stressed that while allegations of wrongdoing should be investigated, anti-corruption agencies must follow due process and avoid actions that could create the perception of political interference.

According to Atiku, institutions responsible for enforcing the law must remain independent and should never be used to intimidate political opponents or influence electoral outcomes.

He also linked the development to what he described as a broader pattern of actions against opposition-controlled states, citing the earlier withholding of local government allocations to Osun State.

Atiku maintained that any disruption to the state’s finances would ultimately affect ordinary residents through delayed salaries, reduced public services, and weakened governance.

He called on all institutions involved in the Osun governorship election to remain impartial, uphold the Constitution, and ensure that the people of Osun are free to determine the outcome of the election without undue interference.