Magu: Lawyer writes panel seeking bail, says campaign of calumny ‘worrisome’

Waha Shittu, Counsel to the former acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has written to the inter-agency presidential panel to bail Mr. Ibrahim Magu.

In his letter, he expressed concern that the Nigeria media has taken advantage of the embattled Chairman’s detention to push for campaign of calumny against him.

Magu was being investigated for several allegations of fraud and misconduct.

Magu who is a Commissioner of Police was arrested on Monday this week by security operatives in Wuse II, Abuja.

In the letter, the lawyer demanded for seven issues to be addressed by the Salami panel:

“In view of our observations above, may we humbly request from your Lordship, the Chairman of the Committee and other distinguished members:

i) That our client will appreciate if afforded the privilege of the terms of reference of this distinguished Committee.

ii) That the petitions containing the allegations be given to our client to afford him the opportunity of knowing the allegations against him, study same and prepare a robust defence.

iii) That our client will appreciate the intervention of the Committee in ordering the release of our client from custody to enable him defend himself adequately and attend to his deteriorating health in custody.

iv) That our client be given adequate time to respond to the allegations against him including providing necessary materials and evidence before this Honourable Committee.

v) That our client be afforded the opportunity to confront the petitioners with his own defence.

vi) That witnesses be examined in his presence and that of his counsel.

vii) That our client be guaranteed his right to fair hearing including his right to liberty in the course of the proceedings of this distinguished Committee.