DSS Detains Suspended EFCC Boss Bawa For Over 60 Days

“The former head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Abdulrasheed Bawa, has declined the assistance of legal counsel even after spending 67 days in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 14, 2023, as informed by a credible source.

Currently detained by the DSS in Abuja, Bawa is under investigation for suspected financial misconduct during his tenure.

“Bawa has neither sought legal representation nor demanded bail. He hasn’t provided any statements nor responded to inquiries made by various officials during his confinement,” the source said.

In June, it was brought to light that the DSS thoroughly searched Bawa’s residence and office in Abuja.

In that week, the DSS also called in some of Bawa’s close colleagues from the EFCC for interrogation.

They were scrutinized over alleged malpractices, misuse of funds, conspiracies, and misdirection of revenues from assets seized by the agency.

An informant noted that the DSS executed a search at Bawa’s Abuja residence on June 17 in the company of his family. On the same day, a different DSS team, armed with a search warrant, combed through his office.”

“DSS operatives stormed the EFCC Headquarters in Jabi on Saturday to search the office of the suspended chairman. But they presented a search warrant. Another set of DSS operatives also searched Bawa’s home in Gwarinpa, and they net his wife and children in the house during the search.

“Bawa’s close associates at the office were also invited for questioning this week, and they’re being probed on allegations of mismanagement, misappropriation, and diversion of proceeds forfeited assets sold under Bawa’s watch,” the source revealed.

Another government source who pleaded anonymity revealed that the DSS had yet to file charges against the embattled EFCC boss as an investigation is still ongoing.

“The DSS has yet to charge him to court because they’re still carrying out their investigation to get enough evidence to help their case,” the source noted.

Recall that the DSS had earlier obtained an exparte order in June to extend Bawa’s detention in their facility, while they continue with their investigation

A government source said the move by the DSS was to deter the suspect from filing lawsuits to enforce his fundamental human rights.

The source said, “The DSS obtained an ex parte order from the court during the week to continue the detention of Emefiele beyond 48 hours so that his lawyers would not file a lawsuit claiming that his fundamental rights are being trampled upon.

You know he’s not supposed to be detained beyond 48 hours according to the constitution.