Why I’m Bothered About Saraki’s Invitation By EFCC — Yakasai

Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, Elder statesman, on Monday said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) invitation to the former Senate President Bukola Saraki may be politically motivated.

While speaking in Kano, Yakasai said the invitation may be an attempt to discourage the former Senate President from contesting the 2023 Presidency.

He said he is worried over the development because Saraki is like his son.

He said, “I have read a report in the social media that my son and the son of my very good friend, the late Dr. Olusola Saraki, the former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki was invited by the EFCC last Saturday, July 31, 2021.

“I will not be involved in anything that will obstruct or interfere with the normal duty of any law enforcement agency. However, I hope this EFCC move against the former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, is not about politics or anything to do with the forthcoming elections in our country.

“Bukola is my son from many angles, he is a son of my late friend and political associate, Second Republic’s Senate Leader, Dr. Olusola Saraki. Besides Bukola is a friend to my eldest son.

“For that reason, I am naturally concerned whenever his freedom and wellbeing is subjected to undue harassment whatsoever. In addition, in my capacity, as one of those who have committed themselves to the promotion of freedom and fundamental human rights of all citizens of our country whether or not they are children of my friends or relatives. I spent well over 70 years fighting for those rights.

“I hope the move against Bukola is not the beginning of political intimidation or harassment of perceived political opponents of the party in power. I do not belong to any political party in Nigeria, as my reaction is born from my commitment to the protection of individual liberty of all Nigerians regardless of their rank ethnicity creed or political inclinations.’’