Group Managing Director of AA&R Investment Group, Mr. Bashir Abdullahi Haske, has debunked recent allegations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing him of involvement in multi-million-dollar fraud, and claiming that he is evading justice under the guise of a medical emergency.

He, therefore, accused the anti-graft agency of a political witch-hunt.

In a statement, Haske said contrary to EFCC’s claims, he voluntarily honoured their invitation, appeared before investigators, and provided comprehensive answers to all questions.

He insisted that he submitted documentary evidence proving the legitimacy of his financial dealings and businesses.

The GMD claimed that despite his cooperation, EFCC denied him administrative bail, even after he reportedly satisfied the imposed onerous conditions.

He alleged to have been unlawfully detained, during which his health deteriorated and resulted in a near-fatal collapse in custody.

Haske further claimed that it was upon realisation of the implication of his possible death in custody that the anti-graft agency “hurriedly” released him on bail.

The statement read in part: “He is presently undergoing medical treatment for complications that were directly caused by this unlawful detention. It is, therefore, shocking and disingenuous for EFCC to now claim he is ‘running away’ when they know his medical situation was precipitated by their own misconduct.

“Mr. Haske is a private businessman with no political ambition or involvement. He is neither a politician nor a supporter of any political actor. His marriage to a political figure cannot and should not be exploited as a pretext for persecution.”

Haske reiterated that he is not fleeing from justice, stating that he remains ready and willing to provide any information legitimately sought by the EFCC, provided such inquiries are conducted in an atmosphere free from intimidation, harassment, and political manipulation. (The Guardian)