In a surprising turn of events, the Department of State Services (DSS) has finally released the former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa.
The announcement of his release was made by Peter Afunanya, the director of public relations and strategic communications at the DSS, in a statement posted on the agency’s social media page on Wednesday.
The former EFCC chairman’s release occurred on Wednesday night, marking the end of a lengthy and closely watched detention period. However, the statement did not provide specific details regarding the terms of his release, leaving many in suspense about the circumstances that led to this development.
“DSS confirms release of former EFCC chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, a few hours ago (today 25th October 2023),” declared Peter Afunanya, the DSS spokesperson, leaving many speculating about the reasons behind this decision.
DSS confirms release of former EFCC chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, a few hours ago (today 25th October, 2023).
Peter Afunanya, Ph.D, fsi
Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications
Department of State Services
National Headquarters
Abuja.
25th October, 2023— Department of State Services (DSS) (@OfficialDSSNG) October 25, 2023
Bawa’s release follows a tumultuous period in his professional career that saw him suspended from his role as the chairman of the anti-graft agency.
The suspension came at the behest of President Bola Tinubu, who took the action in response to serious allegations of abuse of office that had been leveled against Bawa. These allegations originated from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
Willie Bassey, the Director of Information at the SGF’s office, stated that the suspension was deemed necessary to facilitate a comprehensive investigation into the allegations against Bawa. The move was met with mixed reactions from the public and the political sphere, with some applauding it as a necessary step towards accountability and others expressing concerns about its implications for the fight against corruption.
As Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa regains his freedom after more than three months in DSS custody, questions surrounding the outcome of the investigation into the allegations and the implications for his future in the anti-graft sector remain unanswered. The nation watches with bated breath as this high-profile case unfolds.
