The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara took to the streets on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, to voice their discontent outside the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Ilorin over the prolonged detention of former Governor of Kwara State, Dr. Abdufatah Ahmed.
Dr. Ahmed has been held in EFCC custody since Monday, February 19, 2024, in response to allegations of corrupt practices during his tenure as Governor. The PDP protesters, armed with placards bearing bold messages, chanted anti-EFCC slogans and demanded justice for their party stalwart.
Among the slogans were phrases such as “The opposition cannot be silenced”, “Maigida will not join APC no matter what”, “EFCC stop the harassment”, and “Stop the persecution, Investigate 17bn in secret account”.
These messages underscored the party’s stance against what they perceive as undue pressure exerted on their former Governor.
Speaking on behalf of the PDP, the State Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Adewara, accused the EFCC of flouting legal procedures and acting as a tool of political manipulation.
Adewara alleged that the EFCC’s actions were orchestrated to coerce Dr. Ahmed into joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) and to stifle opposition voices, thereby paving the way for a one-party dominance in Kwara State.
Adewara expressed concern over Dr. Ahmed’s well-being, stating that he had not been allowed access to basic necessities such as food, legal counsel, medical attention, or visits from family members since his detention commenced.
He further emphasized Dr. Ahmed’s history of compliance with EFCC invitations during his time in office, contrasting it with what he perceived as a lack of transparency in the current administration.
In response to these allegations, the EFCC’s zonal commander in Ilorin, Michael Nzekwe, refuted the claims of mistreatment and partisan bias. Nzekwe assured that Dr. Ahmed’s rights were being respected, stating that he had access to legal representation, medical care, and adequate sustenance.
Nzekwe reiterated the agency’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and conducting impartial investigations, emphasizing that the EFCC’s actions were prompted by petitions against Dr. Ahmed and were not politically motivated.
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