Law Enforcement Agencies Benefitted From Petrol Subsidy Scam – Former EFCC Chairman

Abdulrasheed Bawa, the former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has claimed that law enforcement agencies were among those who profited from the extensive fraud tied to Nigeria’s now-defunct petrol subsidy regime.

Bawa shared these insights in his recently published book. He stated that between 2006 and 2012, Nigeria incurred losses of approximately $450 million due to subsidy fraud.

In his book, Bawa detailed how several oil marketers implicated during that period were prosecuted and imprisoned, with roughly 80 percent of the misappropriated funds ultimately recovered.

During an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time, Bawa revealed that the fraud’s beneficiaries extended beyond corporate entities and political figures. “Everybody was benefitting from the scale and the scam, including law enforcement,” he said. “People can be compromised in such a way that they will look the other way around. It’s a general thing.”

Bawa also tackled what he called a harmful international narrative regarding the mismanagement of recovered assets, often termed “relooting the loot.” He called on the Nigerian government and its citizens to reject such portrayals, emphasizing that the nation deserves confidence and respect in its fight against corruption.

“Nigeria should be able to challenge the international community that is always thinking negative about our country,” he said. “This idea of relooting the loot shouldn’t be discussed against us as a country. Nigerians and non-Nigerians should have the ability to trust in our leaders.”

He cautioned against adopting foreign perspectives without question, pointing out that many Nigerians have begun to accept critical global opinions unreservedly. “It has now become like a norm among us Nigerians to take in what the international community perceives us to be,” Bawa added.

When asked about the pattern of EFCC chairpersons exiting office amid controversy or investigation, Bawa refuted claims of political victimization. He noted that public speculation often accompanies such transitions, regardless of the context.

“It’s just a phase that has to come and go. People always talk. Whether you’re telling the truth or not, people will say something,” he stated.

Abdulrasheed Bawa held the position of EFCC chairman from 2021 to 2023.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli