Abdullahi Bashir Haske amid alleged money laundering and criminal conspiracy claims, EFCC seeks to freeze $15 million belonging to the Nigerian businessman
Nigerian tycoon Abdullahi Bashir Haske is facing increasing legal pressure as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seeks to freeze a $15 million bank account belonging to him, according to report. The move comes after Haske allegedly breached bail conditions and left the country.
EFCC declares Haske wanted
The development is linked to a broader investigation into Bayo Ojulari, who became CEO of the state oil company NNPC in April. Court filings indicate that Haske, who is married to a daughter of opposition leader and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, is under scrutiny in a widening probe connected to Ojulari.
EFCC has declared Haske wanted for alleged criminal conspiracy and money laundering. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the declaration in a statement, urging the public to provide information that could assist in Haske’s arrest.
“The public is hereby notified that Abdullahi Bashir Haske, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the EFCC in an alleged case of criminal conspiracy and money laundering,” Oyewale said.
Interpol won’t pursue Haske alert
With Haske now reportedly outside Nigeria, the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) said it would not act on the EFCC alert. Interpol, which coordinates law enforcement efforts across member countries, stressed that it does not target individuals in politically sensitive cases.
“Interpol will only issue a Red Notice if it complies with the organisation’s rules and Constitution, which forbids action on political, religious, racial, or military grounds,” the France-based agency said in a statement Friday morning. Interpol added that requests must meet strict regulations to ensure the protection of fundamental rights.
Political and business links under review
AA & R Investment Group, Haske’s firm, is a leader in Nigeria’s energy sector, with stakes in OML 148, an onshore oil block in the Niger Delta, and involvement in aviation services through subsidiaries.
Haske is linked to Ojulari, the NNPCL CEO, and is married into Atiku Abubakar’s family. Atiku, who ran as the main opposition candidate in the 2023 presidential elections, has been a key figure in building a coalition to challenge President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
Alleged fraud prompts investigation
Reports in July indicated that Haske had been briefly arrested and held by the EFCC before being released.
Sources within the anti-graft agency said he is under investigation for alleged money laundering, corruption, and financial fraud tied to private jet operations and questionable contracts linked to NNPCL.
Despite a federal court order restricting certain actions, the EFCC declared Haske wanted on the night of August 21, intensifying the legal scrutiny surrounding the businessman.
