Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to expedite the investigation into the cases involving suspended Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman Abdulrasheed Bawa and embattled Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele.
BizWatch Nigeria recalls that Emefiele was detained on June 10, 2023 on terrorism funding charges while Bawa was questioned by the secret services on allegations of abuse of office.
Falana urged the DSS to arraign the couple in court if there is proof of indictment during a show observed by BizWatch Nigeria.
He contended that Emefiele and Bawa’s continuing detention did not reflect the Administration of Criminal Justice Act’s execution.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) encouraged the Nigerian government to handle the cases in accordance with the provisions of the law in order to avoid a situation in which gaps are abused.
“Investigations should be speedily conducted, more so where allegations are made. I do not expect any delay in the investigation of the very serious allegation that has been made,” Falana stated.
“In the case of Emefiele, the State Security Services last year alleged his involvement in terrorism financing. Please, quickly do something about that.
“With respect to money laundering and other offences, take them to the appropriate agencies of government.
“In the case of Mr Bawa, we haven’t been told the offences he committed. I cannot speak very confidently with respect to the gentleman except to ask the government or the agencies involved to speed up an investigation and have them arraigned if they are indicted.”
