Court Blocks EFCC from Investigating Oyo State Finances

On June 2, 2025, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) requested extensive financial records from the Oyo State Government, including all contracts and transactions from 2021. The Oyo State Government, represented by Attorney General Barrister Abiodun Aikomo, challenged this request in court, arguing it was oppressive and excessively broad.

EFCC counsel I.G. Ojibor contended that the commission was acting within its statutory powers under Section 38 of the EFCC Act, 2004.

However, Justice Maha ruled in favor of the Oyo State Government, stating that any EFCC request must be reasonable and linked to specific allegations, thus setting aside the EFCC's letter. This ruling means the EFCC cannot compel the Oyo State Government to produce the requested documents.

The judgment follows Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde's announcement of his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), indicating a political alliance with the PDP.