Appoint Southerner not Northerner as new EFCC Chairman – HURIWA tells President Tinubu

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has told President Bola Tinubu to appoint someone from the South instead of the North as the new chairman of the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The Commission claims that previous chairpersons of the commission have been from Northern Nigeria. Hence, the need for a change in the new appointment.

This was made known in statement signed and made available by the National Coordinator of HURIWA, Mr Emmanuel Onwubiko, on Monday.

According the organisation, given that the previous heads of the agency have been from the north, it is now becoming common knowledge that the position has ben technically zoned to the north depriving other competent Nigerians from other regions to contribute to the fight against corruption and financial crimes.

“Such a decision would send a powerful message of unity and inclusivity, fostering a harmonious and balanced Nigeria. We firmly believe that a candidate from the southern region should be appointed as the next EFCC chairman to ensure a fair distribution of power and showcase the competence of individuals from diverse backgrounds,” stated HURIWA.

It added, “It is essential to rectify the existing regional imbalance within the EFCC by appointing a candidate from the South as the next chairman, to address the perception of bias and create a more balanced representation within the institution.”

HURIWA also advised that other government agencies should reflect the diversity of the country thereby fostering inclusivity in the appointment of heads of agencies of government.

It also added that competency, merit and proven track record in the fight against financial crimes must be considered the criteria for the appointment of the EFCC head.

Abdulrasheed Bawa’s appointment as the fourth Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) indeed held significance in Nigeria. He was appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, on February 16, 2021, and his nomination was subsequently confirmed by the Senate on February 24, 2021.