Tinubu Administration Intensifies Corruption Probes Against Buhari-Era Officials
Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria's anti-corruption agencies have significantly escalated investigations into numerous former governors and ministers who served during the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari. This renewed focus on accountability represents a substantial shift in the nation's approach to governance and financial transparency.
High-Profile Cases Under Scrutiny
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated multiple probes targeting former officials accused of various financial crimes. These investigations encompass allegations of money laundering, criminal breach of trust, abuse of office, and misappropriation of public funds on an unprecedented scale.
While skepticism persists regarding the ultimate outcomes of these investigations, the ongoing probes signal a determined effort by the current administration to hold former officeholders accountable for their actions during their tenure in public service.
Notable Former Governors Facing Charges
Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State who served from 2016 to 2023 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), faces one of the most prominent cases. The EFCC has charged Bello with 19 counts related to the alleged laundering of more than N80 billion. Investigators claim these substantial funds were diverted to acquire high-value properties in Abuja and other locations.
Despite being declared wanted in 2024 after failing to appear in court for arraignment, Bello has pleaded not guilty and continues to stand trial. Remarkably, even amid these serious legal challenges, he has expressed interest in contesting the Kogi State Senatorial District election in 2027.
In Taraba State, former governor Darius Ishaku and former permanent secretary Bello Yero face prosecution for criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and fraudulent conversion of approximately N27 billion. During court proceedings in November 2025, witness Ismail Lawal testified that funds were disbursed to various beneficiaries on Ishaku's instructions, with some allegedly diverted for personal liabilities.
Additional Governors Under Investigation
Former Delta State governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who joined the APC in 2025, is under investigation for alleged mismanagement of N1.3 trillion in oil derivation funds during his tenure. EFCC investigators took him into custody in November 2024 at their Port Harcourt office.
The commission claims Okowa failed to properly account for these substantial funds and allegedly diverted state money into questionable investments, including N40 billion worth of shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas. Additional allegations involve the acquisition of properties in Abuja and Asaba, though no formal charges have been filed yet.
Former Anambra State governor Willie Obiano remains under trial for alleged N4 billion money laundering. The trial, which began in January 2024, was suspended indefinitely in November 2025 to allow Justice Inyang Ekwo to continue proceedings when available.
Obiano allegedly diverted over N1.2 billion from the state's security vote to private accounts, in violation of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act. His legal team has denied any wrongdoing, describing the case as an abuse of judicial process.
Former Ministers Facing Scrutiny
Beyond governors, several former ministers from Buhari's administration are also under investigation. Former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami has faced repeated arrests since December 2025 over alleged N8.7 billion money laundering, questionable asset recovery deals, and mismanagement of recovered funds.
Former Minister of Labour and Employment Chris Ngige is under trial for alleged N2.2 billion contract fraud while overseeing the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund. Former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele faces multiple cases involving procurement fraud, money laundering, and abuse of office, with millions of dollars and properties already ordered for forfeiture by the courts.
Ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Timipre Sylva was declared wanted in November 2025 over alleged misappropriation of $14.86 million belonging to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale stated the funds were intended for an investment in Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited.
Broader Implications for Nigerian Governance
These extensive investigations represent a significant development in Nigeria's ongoing battle against corruption. The scale of the alleged financial misconduct—involving trillions of naira—highlights the substantial challenges facing the nation's governance structures and financial oversight mechanisms.
As these cases progress through Nigeria's legal system, they will undoubtedly shape public perception of the Tinubu administration's commitment to transparency and accountability. The outcomes may also influence future political dynamics and establish important precedents for how Nigeria addresses allegations of corruption among its highest-ranking officials.
