Mr. Mitchell repeated that “The intention is to get him to court on Monday. We just wanted to be double sure that he will be in court on Monday.”
Mr. Ofoyeju Mitchell, the Head of Public Affairs for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), reassured SaharaTV that Senator-Elect Buruji Kashamu’s fundamental human rights are being respected and that he has been placed under house arrest by the NDLEA.
This is the latest development in a saga of events centered on Senator-Elect Kashamu of Ogun State, and narcotics trafficking charges levied against him by the United States. Senator-Elect Kashamu was previously incarcerated by the United Kingdom on related drug trafficking charges, however, despite his release from the UK the US continues to pursue legal action. It is alleged that Senator-Elect Kashamu trafficked millions of dollars in narcotics through Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.
SaharaTV and SaharaReporters previously reported that NDLEA agents encircled Mr. Kashamu’s residence in Lagos State, and that he barricaded himself in the master bedroom after agents breached his front door.
Kashamu’s lawyer, Mr. Ajibola Oluyede, who also spoke exclusively with SaharaTV, said that the NDLEA intended to abduct him from his own residence unlawfully.
Mr. Mitchell responded to the allegations by saying that “We shouldn’t be mislead by whatever antics they’re trying to put off. There is absolutely no room for such drama.”
“What is important is we’ve placed him under house arrest. He has the right to interact with family and his attorneys. He only has to appear in court on Monday,” he added.
Mr. Mitchell repeated that “The intention is to get him to court on Monday. We just wanted to be double sure that he will be in court on Monday.”
He also emphasized that “we are doing everything in our power to ensure Kashamu’s rights are protected. He had access to his attorneys and movement in the house,” which contradicts previous information provided during interviews with members of Mr. Kashamu’s staff.
The NDLEA spokesman also told SaharaTV that this is the best time to apprehend Senator-Elect Kashamu because their investigation was nearing completion. It should be noted, however, that Senator-Elect Kashamu is due to be sworn in as Senator on Friday.
It is, at present moment, unclear what impact these legal proceedings will have on Mr. Kashamu’s swearing in ceremony.