The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has raised its voice in a resounding demand for the immediate release or judicial arraignment of AbdulRasheed Bawa, the former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
This call was underscored by Professor Ishaq Akintola, the Executive Director of MURIC, on Thursday, as he highlighted the mounting concerns over Bawa’s prolonged detention since June 14, 2023, without any formal charges or public explanation.
Akintola firmly pointed out that the continuous detention of Bawa runs counter to the provisions outlined in Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which expressly guarantees the right to a fair hearing.
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Furthermore, he drew attention to Section 41 of the constitution, which enshrines the freedom of movement for all Nigerian citizens—a right seemingly violated by Bawa’s ongoing confinement.
In a comprehensive statement, the Muslim Rights Concern addressed the absence of communication from both Bawa and his legal representatives, raising concerns about the principle of audi alterem partem—namely, hearing from both sides before making a decision.
Akintola drew a noteworthy comparison between Bawa and Godwin Emefiele, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), who has faced legal proceedings twice since his arrest.
Highlighting this disparity, Akintola queried, “If Godwin Emefiele could be arraigned in court twice since his arrest, we wonder what special crime Bawa committed to have warranted his indefinite detention.”
The notion of fairness and due process was central to his argument, as he lamented the perceived inequality in legal representation between the two figures. Akintola suggested that Emefiele’s purported access to substantial resources might be influencing the differing outcomes in their respective cases.
Central to MURIC’s statement is the call for the upholding of AbdulRasheed Bawa’s fundamental human rights.
The organization is unequivocal in its demand for Bawa’s immediate release or his appearance before a court, where formal charges can be presented, and bail can be considered.
Akintola emphasized the necessity of allowing Bawa to meet with his lawyer, his personal doctor, and key family members—rights that should be upheld without compromise.
In closing, Akintola painted a vision of a Nigeria that champions the freedom of every citizen from institutional coercion, tyranny, oppression, and socio-economic marginalization.
The statement echoes the larger sentiment shared by many who seek a just and equitable society, where the principles of democracy and human rights are upheld without bias. As the call for Bawa’s release or due process gains momentum, the nation’s collective gaze remains fixed on the unfolding events and decisions that will shape the path ahead.
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