$300,000: Group ask senates to investigate EFCC chair

By Abubakar Yunus, Abuja

Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC), has urged the National Assembly to conduct thorough investigate the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Abdulrasheed Bawa over incurring a staggering expenditure nearing $300,000 in lesser Hajji, Meca, Saudi Arabia recently.

It also called on relevant stakeholders, civil society organizations, and the Nigerian public to support this call for Mr. Bawa to step aside and for a thorough investigation into the series of allegations levelled against him.

The National Coordinator of NDYC, Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, in a statement issued on Saturday, call on the chairman of the EFCC Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the sources of funds that facilitated his accommodation during the lesser Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

Uwejeyan said: “We implore you to prioritize the greater good of the Nigerian people over any undue influence or personal agenda that may compromise the pivotal role of the EFCC in combating corruption.

“The EFCC, as an institution charged with the responsibility of combating economic and financial crimes, plays a crucial role in our society. Reports indicate that he secured six opulent rooms at the Hilton Hotel in Mecca, and similarly resided in Sheraton in Jeddah, incurring a staggering expenditure nearing $300,000.

“In the spirit of transparency and accountability, Mr. Bawa owes the Nigerian public and the Senate a detailed account of the origin of these substantial funds.

“We trust in the ability of the Nigerian Senate to conduct an independent and thorough investigation into these allegations, taking into account the principles of due process and the rule of law.

“We urge the Senate to act swiftly and transparently in order to restore public confidence in the EFCC and reaffirm its commitment to the fight against corruption,” he said .

He, However, urged Bawa step aside throughout the investigation to ensure that the investigations are not influenced or compromised in any way, allowing for an impartial examination of the allegations brought against him.

Added: “We must all work together to ensure that the EFCC remains an effective institution in the fight against corruption, upholding the principles of justice and accountability.

“We remain committed to the development and progress of Nigeria, and we firmly believe that a transparent investigation into these allegations will contribute to the overall fight against corruption in our beloved nation.”