The Acting Ibadan Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Halima Rufa’u, assures that securing administrative bail for suspects in EFCC custody does not require any payment.
According to a statement by the Commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Wilson Uwujaren, Rufa’u made this declaration during a meeting with the Executive Committee members of the Ibadan Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA.
Leading the delegation was the branch’s chairman, Folashade Aladeniyi.
Rufa’u, an ACE 1 officer with the EFCC, emphasized that the Commission does not impose any charges on lawyers or family members seeking the release of detained suspects on bail.
She also cautioned lawyers against serving as both “surety” and legal representative for suspects, as this act could lead to legal complications and tarnish the image of the legal profession.
Rufa’u further warned that if a suspect were to escape after being granted administrative bail, the Commission would first apprehend the lawyer before pursuing other sureties.
However, she commended the NBA for their visit and acknowledged that it would strengthen the existing collaboration and synergy between the two organizations.
In response, Aladeniyi praised the EFCC Ibadan Zonal Command for their efforts in curbing cybercrime and related fraudulent activities in Oyo State.
“I want to commend the Ibadan Zonal Command and the EFCC at large for their activities in curbing economic and financial crimes, particularly cybercrime in the country,” Aladeniyi stated.
She also appealed to the Acting Zonal Commander to ensure the prompt release of suspects in custody, thereby protecting their rights.
Furthermore, Aladeniyi urged the Commission to initiate investigations into the corruption allegations against politically-exposed individuals in the state.
NAN
