The office of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Taraba State, Senator Emmanuel Bwacha, has described his recent invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as politically motivated, alleging that it is part of a broader pattern of intimidation against opposition figures in the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Jalingo by his Special Assistant on Media, Joshua Yohanna Nafinji, the senator’s office said it acknowledges and respects the constitutional responsibilities of the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies. However, it expressed concern over the timing and circumstances surrounding the invitation.
The statement alleged that the development reflects an increasing trend in which state institutions are being used to target political opponents, warning that such actions could weaken public trust in democratic institutions.
The office cited previous cases involving former Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo; former Minister of Power, Sale Mamman; Bello Bodejo; and Muktar Kawujo, claiming that their experiences during electoral contests in Taraba State were perceived by supporters as politically motivated.
“Such incidents have heightened public concern over the possible misuse of state institutions for partisan political purposes. If left unaddressed, this could undermine democratic governance, the rule of law and public confidence in independent institutions,” the statement read.
The senator’s media office urged the Taraba State Government to promote democratic values through fairness, transparency, tolerance and healthy political competition, rather than actions that could create perceptions of political interference in public institutions.
It also called on civil society organisations, democratic institutions, the media and Nigerians to remain vigilant in defending democratic principles and the rule of law.
The statement reaffirmed that Senator Bwacha remains committed to serving the people of Taraba State, maintaining that no form of intimidation would deter him from pursuing what it described as justice, good governance and democratic accountability.