Atiku Abubakar criticizes the EFCC for the arrest and detention of Muhammad Kazaure, alleging abuse of power and disregard for due process

Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has strongly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the arrest and continued detention of former House of Representatives member, Muhammad Kazaure.

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In a statement released on his official X page on Saturday, Atiku Abubakar accused the EFCC of a “brazen disregard for due process” and abuse of power, stating that Kazaure’s detention reflects a pattern of lawlessness and political repression.

He drew parallels between Kazaure’s case and the recent detention of social commentator, Martins Vincent Otse (VeryDarkMan), whose release followed public outcry.

“We witnessed this same abuse in the unlawful arrest and detention of Mr. Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, whose release was only secured after massive public outrage and pressure,” Atiku stated.

Let it be stated without equivocation: even if there were legitimate grounds for arresting any citizen, such action must adhere strictly to the rule of law.

“Now, the EFCC has targeted Hon. Muhammad Kazaure, a former member of the House of Representatives and an unapologetic critic of the gross misgovernance and failings of the Tinubu administration.

Abducted in Kano and whisked away to Abuja, Kazaure is presently being held incommunicado, with no formal charge or explanation offered to his family, legal team, or the Nigerian people.”

Atiku emphasized that even with legitimate grounds for arrest, due process must be followed. He insisted that the EFCC is obligated to disclose the reasons for any arrest and cannot detain individuals indefinitely under the guise of investigation.

He criticized the EFCC’s silence, suggesting that Kazaure’s detention is a direct result of his vocal criticism of the current administration.

“We are left with no choice but to conclude that Kazaure’s ordeal is a direct consequence of his fearless and unrelenting criticism of this administration,” Atiku added.