The Coalition for Good Leadership, Accountability, and Rule of Law Initiative has commended the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) for refusing to back the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) wanted declaration of businessman Bashir Abdullahi Haske.
The coalition of CSOs in a statement released on Saturday, described the EFCC’s move as politically motivated and a clear attempt to use state power against perceived opponents of the ruling government.
“Interpol has shown courage in standing against the victimization of opposition figures in Nigeria. By refusing to support the EFCC’s actions, they have made it clear that they will not be used as a tool for political persecution.” the statement reads in part.
Haske, who is a son-in-law of opposition leader Atiku Abubakar, was declared wanted by the EFCC on August 21, 2025.
The coalition of CSOs stated that the agency deliberately sensationalised the case by repeatedly tagging him as Atiku’s in-law in the media, instead of focusing on the facts.
According to CSOs, Interpol confirmed in a response to a Nigerian newspaper that it had not received any request from the EFCC about Haske and does not support politically motivated cases.
The CSOs further accused the EFCC of conducting what it tagged a media trial aimed at damaging Haske’s reputation.
“If this case truly followed international law, why has the EFCC not contacted Interpol? Their refusal to follow due process raises serious questions,” the statement added.
“The EFCC’s failure to follow standard procedures suggests ulterior motives and reinforces fears of a politically driven agenda,” the CSOs said.
“This is a troubling case of sensationalism being placed above proper judicial processes, and it shows how the agency is weaponizing its authority to target political opponents.”
Court records cited by the CSOs revealed that Haske had honored EFCC’s invitation for questioning in July and even spent two days in detention, during which he collapsed and was rushed to hospital. Despite meeting bail conditions, no charges have yet been filed against him.
Arc. Benedict Aiguobarueghian, convener of the CSO coalition, urged the media and the public to hold institutions accountable.
“The EFCC’s pursuit of this case appears driven by personal and political agendas rather than evidence of wrongdoing. Such actions weaken public trust in our anti-graft agencies and must stop.”
The CSOs called on the EFCC to act with fairness and respect for due process.
