Abubakar Malami, Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) says he recommended Abdulrasheed Bawa as chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) based on competence.
Mr Bawa was appointed to head the anti-graft agency after a presidential panel set up to probe suspended Ibrahim Magu, who piloted the affairs of the EFCC in acting capacity, submitted its report which the presidency has refused to make public.
Last month, the appointment of Bawa, was speedily confirmed by the 9th Nigerian Senate on the request of the president.
Speaking to Daily Trust, the attorney general who doubles as the Justice Minister, refuted reports that he recommended the substantive head of the EFCC because the appointee hails from the same state with him as well as being his relation.
Malami expressed satisfaction that critics were not doubting the competence of the 40-year old.
“I am happy that most of the comments made are not on his capacity, intelligence, competence and associated ability to deliver. His capacity to deliver was never questioned across the nation,” the minister said.
“The question is whether justice has been served, whether public interest has been served having the chairman appointed with a particular regard to his capacity and ability to deliver.
“My answer is yes. He has the capacity, ability and institutional history of the institution to do justice by way of bringing about added value.
“[Bawa] has held various authorities, inclusive of serving in various divisions as the head of operations, including Port Harcourt, Lagos and Ibadan which are adjudged to be the high point,” he added.
