Pauline Tallen Denies Detention – Says I Went To EFCC On My Own

The former Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen has denied reports alleging she was detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). She shared screenshots of two news reports on Twitter, whose headlines alleged she had been detained by the EFCC.

She wrote “At about 9pm yesterday, news began circulating that I had been arrested by the EFCC. This fake news was carried by several media outlets who were either mischievious or misguided. I would like to state that I went to the EFCC on my own accord, to address the very false allegation made against me recently”.

She said “Owing to the respect for my former principal – Former President Muhammadu Buhari and his good office, I did not previously address the open allegation. However, it has become necessary to do so. To immediately jump to the open without any proper formal correspondence is highly unprofessional, portrays a lack of respect for the Ministry of Women Affairs and injurious to my person and character”.

She further stated that she was not arrested neither was there any formal invitation from the anti-graft agency. She praised the EFCC for “the professionalism” it demonstrated, adding that she will “allow for a transparent enquiry if needed”.