Charles Esther
The Coalition for Good Leadership, Accountability, and Rule of Law Initiative has commended Interpol for refusing to back the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) declaration of Bashir Abdullahi Haske as wanted.
In a statement on Saturday, the coalition described the EFCC’s move as politically motivated and an attempt to use state institutions against perceived opposition figures.
EFCC Accused of Political Persecution
The group stated that Interpol’s decision showed courage in resisting the victimization of political opponents in Nigeria.
According to them, the refusal confirmed that Interpol would not be used as a tool for political persecution.
Haske’s Political Links Highlighted
Haske, who is married to a daughter of opposition leader Atiku Abubakar, was declared wanted by the EFCC on August 21, 2025.
The coalition argued that the agency sensationalized the case by consistently tagging him as Atiku’s in-law in the media, rather than presenting the legal facts.
Interpol Denies Receiving EFCC Request
The group revealed that Interpol confirmed to a Nigerian newspaper that it had not received any request from the EFCC regarding Haske.
It also stressed that Interpol does not support politically motivated cases.
Allegation of Media Trial
The coalition further accused the EFCC of conducting a media trial aimed at tarnishing Haske’s reputation.
They questioned why the EFCC had not followed due process by contacting Interpol formally.
EFCC’s Motives Questioned
According to the statement, the agency’s refusal to follow standard procedures raises suspicions of ulterior motives and reinforces fears of a political agenda.
The coalition warned that such practices undermine judicial processes and weaken the credibility of anti-graft institutions.
Haske’s Detention and Health Scare
Court documents cited by the coalition showed that Haske had previously honored EFCC’s invitation in July.
He reportedly spent two days in detention, during which he collapsed and was hospitalized.
Although he met bail conditions, no charges have been filed against him to date.
Call for Accountability and Fairness
Arc. Benedict Aiguobarueghian, convener of the coalition, urged the media and the public to hold institutions like the EFCC accountable.
He stressed that the pursuit of politically motivated cases erodes public trust in governance and justice systems.
Demand for Due Process
The coalition concluded by calling on the EFCC to act with fairness, transparency, and respect for the rule of law in handling Haske’s case
