The Presidency has refuted claims that the All Progressives Congress (APC) pressures opposition members to defect, saying politicians who joined the ruling party were motivated by President Bola Tinubu’s reforms. In a statement by Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, the government also denied allegations that anti-corruption agencies like the EFCC are being weaponised to intimidate political opponents.

The statement emphasised that the EFCC operates independently and investigates financial crimes regardless of political affiliation. It also stressed that President Tinubu does not direct the EFCC on whom to probe or prosecute.

The Presidency described the opposition’s claims as a distraction and accused some signatories of having past investigations and indictments, implying their criticisms are self-serving. It reiterated that accountability and the fight against corruption are collective responsibilities that should not be politicised.