In a recent turn of events, the suspended chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been subjected to questioning by the Department of State Services (DSS) regarding allegations of office abuse. Dr. Peter Afunanya, the spokesperson for the DSS, confirmed this development on Wednesday night, revealing that Mr. Bawa willingly attended the DSS invitation after his suspension earlier in the day.
Dr. Afunanya stated, “Bawa arrived a few hours ago. The invitation relates to some investigative activities concerning him.” This indicates that the DSS is actively pursuing an inquiry into the accusations surrounding the former EFCC chairman’s conduct.
However, the DSS did not disclose whether Mr. Bawa has been released on bail or is still being held at the DSS facility in Abuja. The nature and severity of the allegations could potentially impact the decision regarding his status.
Reports gathered shows that President Bola Tinubu has taken decisive action by indefinitely suspending Mr. Bawa from his position as chairman of the EFCC. This move is intended to facilitate a thorough investigation into the allegations of abuse of office. The decision was made in light of the gravity of the accusations leveled against Mr. Bawa.
In accordance with a statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), signed by Willie Bassey, Mr. Bawa has been instructed to promptly hand over the responsibilities of his office to the Director of Operations within the anti-graft Commission. During the investigation period, the Director of Operations will oversee the office of the EFCC chairman, ensuring continuity of the Commission’s operations.
The suspended EFCC chairman finds himself in the midst of an investigation conducted by the DSS regarding allegations of office abuse. President Bola Tinubu’s decision to suspend Mr. Bawa indefinitely aims to ensure a thorough examination of the claims made against him. The EFCC’s Director of Operations will temporarily oversee the office of the chairman until the conclusion of the investigation. This development highlights the commitment of Nigerian authorities to addressing allegations of misconduct and upholding the integrity of public institutions.