Maina Says EFCC Wanted Notice Is Mere Allegation, Seeks Details

By Vivian Okejeme

Former Chairman of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team (PRTT), Dr Abdulrasheed Abdullahi Maina, has called for details of the allegation contained in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) declaration of him as a wanted man.

Maina’s position was contained in a statement issued by his Senior Media and Legal Assistant, Emmanuel Umahi Ekwe, Esq., following the EFCC’s publication declaring him wanted over what the commission described as an “alleged case of receiving stolen properties.”

The statement described the EFCC publication as a mere allegation, pending the disclosure of the particulars and circumstances upon which it was based.

The legal assistant noted that the published notice did not disclose the nature or description of the alleged stolen property, the alleged transaction, the person or persons from whom the property was allegedly received, the date or circumstances of the alleged offence, or the specific legal basis upon which the declaration was made.

The statement read in part: “It would therefore be premature for us to speculate on facts that have not been made available to us.”

It further noted that Maina had been involved in several legal proceedings over the years, some of which had been determined, while others remained subject to the judicial process.

While cautioning against conflating the latest EFCC notice with previous proceedings or judicial determinations, Maina, in the statement, insisted that each matter should be considered on its own facts and legal foundation.

“We are presently taking steps to obtain and examine the relevant information concerning this latest development and to advise appropriately on the legal position,” the statement added.

Maina’s legal team also urged the media and members of the public to exercise restraint while the matter proceeds through due process.

According to the statement, an allegation contained in a law enforcement publication should not, by itself, be treated as a final determination of criminal liability.

The statement added that further clarification would be provided, where appropriate, after the necessary information had been obtained and instructions received.