By Muhammad Mamman
A coalition of pro-democracy groups has slammed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for what it calls a “politically motivated witch-hunt” against Bashir Haske, son-in-law of former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The coalition alleges the EFCC’s move to declare Haske wanted is a blatant abuse of power, accusing the anti-graft agency of orchestrating a “media trial” rather than pursuing justice.
In a fiery statement, the coalition, led by Arc. Benedict Aiguobarueghian, claimed the EFCC is overstepping its mandate by attempting to involve Interpol in what it described as a baseless campaign against Haske. “No charges have been filed against him, and he has fully cooperated with investigators,” Aiguobarueghian said. “This is not about fighting corruption—it’s a vendetta driven by personal and political agendas.”
The group hailed Interpol’s reported refusal to act on the EFCC’s request as a “triumph of justice over political persecution.” It accused the EFCC of weaponizing Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts to target opponents of the federal government, warning that such actions erode public confidence in the nation’s institutions.
“The EFCC must focus on genuine anti-graft efforts, free from bias or external influence,” Aiguobarueghian urged, calling on the media and Nigerians to reject what the coalition termed “selective justice.”
The EFCC has not publicly responded to the allegations. The controversy adds fuel to ongoing debates about the impartiality of Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies, with critics arguing that political motives often overshadow legitimate investigations.
