The Nigeria Department of State Services (DSS) invited the suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, on the June 14, 2023. The invitation followed Bawa’s suspension by President Bola Tinubu on the same day after closed door meeting with him.
The Secret Service has not released any details about the nature of its investigation into Bawa. However, there are a number of possible reasons why the DSS might have invited him for questioning.
- Allegations of abuse of office: Bawa has been accused of using his position to enrich himself and his family members. He has also been accused of awarding contracts to friends and associates without following due process as stipulated by law.
- Allegations of fraud: Bawa has been accused of falsifying his academic records, and of using his position to secure a job at the EFCC. He has also been accused of laundering money for some corrupt politicians.
- Allegations of corruption: Bawa has been accused of accepting bribes and shielding prominent corrupt officials from prosecution. He has also been accused of using his position to intimidate and harass his critics.
It is important to note that Bawa has not been charged with any crime and is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The DSS investigation is ongoing and it is also possible that Bawa will be cleared of all charges.
READ ALSO: 3 Reasons EFCC Boss Bawa Was Suspended By President Tinubu.
The suspension of Bawa and the DSS investigation have raised concerns about the independence of the EFCC. The EFCC is a powerful anti-corruption agency that has been praised for its success in prosecuting corrupt officials. However, the agency has also been criticized for its use of excessive force and for its close ties to the government.
The suspension of Bawa and the DSS investigation could damage the credibility of the EFCC and make it more difficult for the agency to fight corruption. It is important for the DSS to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations against Bawa. If Bawa is found to have committed any crimes, he should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.