By Nurat Uthman
Halima Rufa’u, the Acting Ibadan Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has stated that securing administrative bail for suspects in EFCC’s custody is free. Wilson Uwujaren, the Commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, confirmed this in a statement on Wednesday.
Rufa’u made this statement while receiving members of the Executive Committee of the Ibadan Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), led by Folashade Aladeniyi, the branch’s chairman. Rufa’u, who is an ACE 1 with the EFCC, warned lawyers against acting as both surety and legal representative for suspects, as this could lead to trouble and negatively reflect on the legal profession. She further stated that if a suspect jumps administrative bail, the lawyer would be arrested first before other sureties. Rufa’u expressed appreciation for the visit by the NBA delegation, noting that it would strengthen the collaboration and synergy between the two organizations.
In her remarks, Aladeniyi commended the EFCC Ibadan Zonal Command for its efforts in combating cybercrime and related fraud activities in Oyo State. She also praised the Commission for its track record of convictions in the fight against economic and financial crimes, particularly cybercrime. Aladeniyi appealed to the Acting Zonal Commander to ensure the quick release of suspects in detention and urged the Commission to investigate allegations of corruption against politically-exposed individuals in the state without delay.
