The legal team of Adamawa State-born entrepreneur and investor, Bashir Haske, has faulted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for declaring him wanted over alleged criminal conspiracy and money laundering.
In a statement signed by his lead counsel, Nkemakolam Okoro, the lawyers described the EFCC’s action as “a blatant act of illegality and abuse of process,” noting that a motion is already pending before the Federal High Court, Abuja, challenging the validity of the arrest warrant earlier secured by the anti-graft agency.
“The decision by the EFCC to declare Mr. Bashir Haske wanted is a blatant act of illegality and an abuse of process, especially in light of a pending motion before the Federal High Court challenging the validity of the warrant of arrest,” the statement read.
Okoro argued that court filings show Haske had demonstrated willingness to cooperate with investigators, recalling that he honoured the EFCC’s invitation in July and later submitted medical records after developing health complications during detention.
He accused the commission of obtaining an arrest warrant before Haske’s agreed return date, insisting that a motion has been filed to vacate and set aside the order, which he described as being obtained through misrepresentation and suppression of material facts.
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“The order issued on August 8 was specifically for his arrest, not for him to be declared wanted. It is settled law that when a court order is obtained by deceit or concealment, the court has inherent powers to set it aside,” Okoro stated.
However, the EFCC, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, defended its decision, maintaining that Haske remains wanted.
“The public is hereby notified that Abdullahi Bashir Haske, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the EFCC in connection with an alleged case of criminal conspiracy and money laundering.
Anyone with useful information on his whereabouts should contact the nearest police station or any EFCC office nationwide,” the agency said.
