ASHENEWS reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reacted to Zamfara governor, Bello Muhammad’s allegation that it’s Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, demanded a $2 million bribe from him over the N70 billion alleged fraud.
This online platform recalls that the governor alleged in a BBC interview on Friday, that Bawa demanded $2 million to cover the N70 billion fraud.
However, the Commission, in a statement by its spokesperson, Dr. Wilson Uwujaren mailed to ASHENEWS on Friday night, said “…despite the irritation of his phantom claims, the Commission will not be drawn into a mud fight with a suspect under its investigation for corruption and unconscionable pillage of the resources of his state.”
The anti-graft agency added that “If Matawalle will be taken seriously, he should go beyond sabre-rattling by spilling the beans – provide concrete evidence as proof of his allegations.”
Read the statement below:
The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has been drawn to a trending interview granted to the Hausa Service of the British Broadcasting Corporation, BBC, by Bello Muhammed Matawalle, governor of Zamfara State, where he allegedly made wild bribery allegations against the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa.
ALSO READ: EFCC’s chair, Bawa demanded $2m bribe from me, Zamfara governor alleges
Matawalle’s recourse to mudslinging is symptomatic of a drowning man clutching at straws. But despite the irritation of his phantom claims, the Commission will not be drawn into a mud fight with a suspect under its investigation for corruption and unconscionable pillage of the resources of his state. If Matawalle will be taken seriously, he should go beyond sabre-rattling by spilling the beans – provide concrete evidence as proof of his allegations.
ALSO READ: “Yes, we’re investigating Zamfara governor over N70bn alleged fraud” – EFCC
Again, the Commission wishes to alert the public about plans by some of the alleged corrupt politically exposed persons to flee the country ahead of May 29.
The Commission is working in close collaboration with its international partners to frustrate these escape plans and bring those involved to justice.
Wilson Uwujaren
Head, Media & Publicity
19/05/2023
