In a recent development, President Bola Tinubu has taken the decision to suspend AbdulRasheed Bawa, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The purpose of this suspension is to ensure a thorough investigation into allegations of misconduct that have been levied against him by various stakeholders involved in the anti-corruption campaign.
Following his suspension, Bawa has been instructed to promptly hand over his responsibilities to Mohammed Umar Abba, the Director of Operations at the EFCC. Abba will assume the role of overseeing the operations of the EFCC Chairman’s office during this period.
Mohammed Umar Abba, born on June 22, 1965, in Tudunwada Local Government Area of Kano State, brings a wealth of experience to the position. He obtained his first degree from Bayero University, Kano, and completed his one-year national service at the former Anambra State Police Command. Abba subsequently joined the Nigeria Police Force and graduated from the Nigeria Police Academy in Kaduna State in 1992.
Abba’s career path led him to the EFCC when he was seconded to the Commission in January 2016 to head the Counterterrorism and General Investigations (CTGI) Section at the Headquarters in Abuja. In 2017, he was appointed as the Director of Operations of the Commission, and in 2019, he was promoted to the rank of Commissioner of Police.
Following the suspension of former Chairman Ibrahim Magu on July 9, 2020, Mohammed Umar Abba assumed the role of Acting Chairman of the EFCC due to his seniority as the most experienced operational officer.
President Bola Tinubu’s decision to suspend AbdulRasheed Bawa reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining transparency, accountability, and integrity in the fight against corruption. This suspension will allow for a comprehensive investigation into the allegations against Bawa, ensuring a fair and unbiased process.
During this period, Mohammed Umar Abba will oversee the operations of the EFCC Chairman’s office, ensuring continuity and effective management of the Commission’s affairs. The government remains resolute in its determination to uphold the highest standards of governance and strengthen the anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria.