Comrade Abioye Tosin Lawrence, Publisher of Oriontimes News and Chairman of the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA), has said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's (EFCC) decision to freeze the Osun State Government's account may be supported by law but stressed that the anti-graft agency must demonstrate impartiality to sustain public confidence.
Abioye made the remarks during IPADE ONIROYIN, a current affairs programme hosted by John Omojasola on Afinju Redio. The discussion also featured public affairs commentator, Aare Yemi Olaleye, with both speakers examining issues surrounding the EFCC's action, political violence, governance and youth participation in politics.
Speaking on the legality of the commission's action, Abioye cited Section 34(1) of the EFCC Act, noting that the agency possesses statutory powers to seek the freezing of accounts in the course of investigations.
He, however, argued that the commission must ensure its actions are not perceived as politically motivated.
"The EFCC's decision to freeze Osun State's account may be backed by the operation of the law, particularly Section 34(1) of the EFCC Act.
However, to ensure it has no political undertone, similar actions should be seen where the law so requires, especially in states governed by political parties different from Osun's. Such consistency will further strengthen public trust in the commission," he said.
On security and political violence, Abioye maintained that the Nigeria Police Force already possesses adequate legal powers to tackle criminal activities, urging authorities to combine law enforcement with economic opportunities for young people.
According to him, many individuals involved in political thuggery often appear vulnerable once arrested, suggesting that unemployment and social exclusion contribute significantly to the problem.
"The police have sufficient legal backing to curb criminal activities. When those disrupting public peace are arrested and brought in for questioning, many appear helpless.
It is not necessarily because they desire to become thugs. Leaders must do better by creating employment opportunities that are accessible to all, regardless of political affiliation," he said.
Also speaking during the programme, Aare Yemi Olaleye observed that politics and religion have become increasingly intertwined in Nigeria.
He argued that political actors now seek support across religious and traditional institutions, making it difficult to separate faith from political activities.
"Religion has entered politics for a long time, just as politics has entered religion. Politics today is like business, and both spheres have become interconnected," Olaleye stated.
Reflecting on youth participation in governance, Abioye expressed concern over what he described as growing political apathy among graduates, attributing it partly to harsh economic realities.
He noted that many graduates now engage in the sale of cow skin (ponmo) and other petty businesses to survive, leaving many disillusioned about governance and public service.
Olaleye also criticised the use of young people for political violence, suggesting that politicians rarely entrust such individuals with responsibilities within their own families.
"If those involved in political thuggery truly want to understand their place in society, they should ask a politician to allow one of them marry his daughter and see the response," he remarked.
The programme concluded with calls for stronger institutions, equitable law enforcement, job creation and responsible political leadership as critical steps toward strengthening democracy and reducing political tension in Osun State and across Nigeria.
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