Former EFCC Chairman Abdulrasheed Bawa Released by DSS After Over 100 Days in Custody.
Abuja, Nigeria – In a significant turn of events, the Department of State Services (DSS) has released former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, after more than 100 days in custody. This development was confirmed by a statement from the secret police late on Wednesday, October 25, 2023.
DSS confirms release of former EFCC chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, a few hours ago (today 25th October 2023),” stated Peter Afunanya, Ph.D, fsi, the Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications at the Department of State Services.
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The release of Abdulrasheed Bawa was met with widespread attention, especially considering the circumstances surrounding his arrest and detention. A video of the former EFCC chief being welcomed by his wives and children quickly went viral on social media platforms.
Abdulrasheed Bawa’s journey to freedom began months after President Bola Tinubu suspended him from his role as the chairman of the anti-graft agency. The suspension was triggered by serious allegations of abuse of office leveled against him, as confirmed by the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
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Willie Bassey, the Director of Information at the SGF office, stated that the suspension was essential to facilitate a thorough investigation into the allegations against Bawa. This move was not without controversy, as it had far-reaching implications for the leadership of the EFCC, a key player in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
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In the midst of his suspension, Abdulrasheed Bawa faced additional allegations. Bello Matawalle, a former Governor of Zamfara State, accused Bawa of soliciting a $2 million bribe from him. The former EFCC chief vehemently denied these allegations, setting off a series of legal and political debates.
Abdulrasheed Bawa Suspension
In response to Bawa’s suspension, President Bola Tinubu directed Abdulkarim Chukkol, the Commission’s Director of Operations, to serve as the acting chair of the EFCC. Later, on October 12, a new leader was appointed to head the agency. Ola Olukoyede was named as the new chief of the EFCC, with his appointment initially set for a renewable term of four years.
These developments mark a significant chapter in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts and bring to a close the period of uncertainty surrounding Abdulrasheed Bawa’s detention. As the nation watches closely, it remains to be seen what impact these events will have on the ongoing efforts to combat corruption in Nigeria.
