Abdulrasheed Bawa, the suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria, has reportedly refused to hire legal representation despite being detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) for 67 days since June 14, 2023. Bawa is being investigated for alleged financial impropriety that occurred during his tenure as the head of EFCC.
Sources have indicated that Bawa has declined to answer any queries brought before him by the DSS. He also reportedly declined to provide his bank account details to Davido, a popular Nigerian singer, who had asked for them during Bawa’s detention.
DSS operatives had previously searched Bawa’s home and office in June as part of their investigation into the alleged financial impropriety. Bawa’s close associates at the EFCC were also reportedly questioned by the DSS in relation to the allegations.
While Bawa has not been charged with any crime yet, the investigation is ongoing, and the DSS is reportedly still gathering evidence for their case.
The situation sheds light on the ongoing challenges related to corruption and governance in Nigeria and the actions taken to address these issues at the highest levels of the country’s institutions.