CSOs smell Tinubu’s tyranny in locking up suspended anti-graft Chair
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
A coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) is demanding transparency in the treatment being meted out to suspended Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman AbdulRasheed Bawa.
Little has been heard of Bawa since his detention without trial by the Department of State Services (DSS) on June 14 after President Bola Tinubu suspended him.
The Villa explained Bawa was suspended over alleged abuse of office.
The coalition includes Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Procurement Observation and Advocacy Initiative, Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre, and Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice.
The CSOs lamented the absence of formal charges against Bawa or explanation about his detention, saying this undermines the fundamental principles of justice and due process.
They expressed regret the allegations against him emanated from politicians close to corridors of power.
The coalition noted former EFCC Chairpersons such as Nuhu Ribadu, Farida Waziri, Ibrahim Lamorde, and Ibrahim Magu all had also faced controversial dismissals from office before Bawa became the chief anti-graft buster.
“The indefinite detention of Bawa without proper trial raises even more serious concerns and is distasteful,” the coalition said in a statement.
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Credibility of anti-graft crusade
The coalition argued the prolonged detention without due process damages the credibility of the anti-corruption crusade, raises doubt about the motive behind these actions, and sends out a wrong message about Nigeria’s commitment to eradicating corruption, per The Guardian.
“It prompts reflection on whether the anti-corruption battle remains effective when those leading the charge are subjected to vague accusations and prolonged incarceration.
“This incident prompts questions about the impartiality of the justice system and its vulnerability to political influence.”
The CSOs sought the investigation of Bawa and his prosecution if any crime is established against him.
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