Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has publicly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for what he describes as a pattern of lawlessness in its recent actions.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that In a Facebook post, Abubakar accused the agency of arresting and detaining citizens without due process or justification, raising concerns about the erosion of legal rights in Nigeria.
Abubakar’s comments come in the wake of the EFCC’s arrest of Hon. Muhammad Kazaure, a former member of the House of Representatives known for his outspoken criticism of the Tinubu administration. Kazaure was reportedly abducted in Kano and taken to Abuja, where he is being held without formal charges or communication with his family or legal representatives.
The former Vice President emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law, stating that even if there are grounds for arrest, the EFCC must provide clear reasons and cannot detain individuals indefinitely. He pointed out that the Nigerian Constitution mandates that detainees must be charged in court promptly or released.
Abubakar further criticized the EFCC for its silence regarding Kazaure’s situation, suggesting that the agency’s actions reflect a broader trend of impunity and constitutional violations. He argued that the agency’s disregard for transparency and justice undermines the fundamental rights of Nigerian citizens.
The former Vice President also expressed concern that Kazaure’s arrest is a direct result of his vocal opposition to the current government. He accused the administration of hypocrisy, noting that while it engages with individuals linked to corruption, it uses state power to intimidate and silence critics.
Abubakar also warned that the Nigerian public is closely observing these developments and that the government’s actions will not be forgotten. He called for accountability and respect for the rule of law, urging the EFCC to reconsider its approach to arrests and detentions.