Tambuwal returns to Sokoto after EFCC ordeal, crowd cheers

DDM News

(DDM) – Former governor of Sokoto State and current Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Tambuwal, has returned to his home state to a rousing reception.

DDM gathered that the visit came just days after Tambuwal’s release from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The former governor was detained by the anti-graft agency over allegations of involvement in a ₦189 billion fraud case.

Sources disclosed that Tambuwal was arrested, questioned, and later granted bail by the EFCC on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

His return to Sokoto on Thursday, August 14, sparked a massive turnout of supporters and political allies who gathered to welcome him.

Videos circulating on social media, including posts from Tambuwal’s official X account, show jubilant crowds waving and cheering as his convoy moved through the city.

Tambuwal expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome in a message shared online.

“I am deeply grateful to the good people of Sokoto for the warm reception and outpouring of love upon my arrival this afternoon,” he wrote.

“This is one honour among many that I cherish and will never take for granted,” he added, signing off the message with his initials “AWT.”

Political analysts say the enthusiastic welcome signals that Tambuwal still commands significant influence in Sokoto’s political landscape.

They note that despite the EFCC ordeal, his political base appears intact, with supporters framing his detention as politically motivated.

The EFCC has not released detailed public statements on the specifics of the alleged ₦189 billion fraud case.

However, insiders say the investigation is part of a broader probe into financial transactions during Tambuwal’s tenure as governor.

His legal team has consistently maintained his innocence, dismissing the allegations as unfounded.

The rousing reception has also sparked discussions on social media, with many Nigerians debating the implications of such public shows of support for politicians under investigation.

Some argue that the turnout reflects loyalty and trust from constituents, while others view it as a symptom of Nigeria’s entrenched political patronage culture.

DDM notes that this is not the first time a Nigerian politician facing corruption allegations has been celebrated upon returning home from detention.

The EFCC has vowed to continue its investigations and, if necessary, prosecute any individuals found culpable.

For now, Tambuwal’s return has injected new energy into Sokoto politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

His ability to mobilize such a massive crowd despite recent controversies may shape the political calculations of both allies and opponents in the months ahead.

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