Senator Omisore declared wanted by the EFCC

Senator Iyiola Omisore, a member of the People's Democratic Party has been declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, over an alleged N700 million which he reportedly received from the Office of the former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki (rtd).

Omisore, who contested for the Governorship election in Osun State lost to Governor Aregbesola.

According to the  EFCC, he has been unable to explain why he got the money from the former NSA, who is also standing trial for breach of public office and money laundering in three separate courts of law in Abuja. They also said that Omisore had been evading the commission after being served a formal invitation to appear for questioning on what he knew about the money.

The EFCC letter of invitation, signed by Abubakar Madaki on behalf of the acting chairman of commission, read: 

“The commission is investigating an alleged case in which your name featured prominently. 

“In view of the above, you are requested to interview the undersigned on Monday, April 11, at 30, Harper Crescent, Wuse Zone 7, at 10a.m. Your cooperation in this regard is solicited.”

Shortly after, Omisore wrote through a lawyer, Wole Jimi-Bada and Co., that the interview should be rescheduled. The letter read: 

“Your letter dated April 7, addressed to our client and delivered to his security at our client’s residence, has been passed on to our chambers. 

 “We regret to inform you that our client travelled briefly out of Abuja but will return by Wednesday evening accordingly. 

 Consequently, he will not be able to attend the interview schedule, as requested in your letter under reference. On his behalf, we humbly request that the interview be rescheduled for April 14, for him to honour your invitation. We regret any inconvenience this request may cause you.”

 Omisore reacts In his reaction, he said: 

“I read the statement issued by EFCC, purportedly declaring me wanted as an attempt by that organisation and its leadership to tarnish my image. 

That statement, if indeed it was issued by EFCC, is the height of mischief and a deliberate attempt to assassinate my character. It is now very clear that EFCC is indeed playing out the script of persecuting and harassing perceived opposition groups in the country.

To be sure, there is no basis for the EFCC so-called statement. Only on Tuesday, May 24, we appeared in court with EFCC asking for the permission of the court for an extension of time in the preliminary objection to a suit filed against me. 

The Managing Director of Firmex Gill, which EFCC joined in their case indemnified me from the company’s contracts and any such obligations. 

In other words, there is nothing relating to me in the company’s contract deal with ONSA. The company has even sued ONSA for its inability to pay the balance of the contract so awarded to it.”