Former Governor Yahaya Bello Honours EFCC Invitation Amid Allegations

Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, is currently at the Headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja. Reports suggest that he was detained by EFCC officials in Lokoja and brought to Abuja, allegedly in connection with a 19-count charge of money laundering amounting to N80 billion.

The case has been ongoing since April 2024 at the federal high court in Abuja. It has been reported that Mr. Bello had not appeared in court to enter a plea, a situation that has now changed with his current engagement with the EFCC.

The EFCC’s version of events suggests an arrest in Lokoja, a claim that contrasts with a statement from Mr. Bello’s media office. According to the statement, the former governor willingly went to the EFCC to honor their invitation, after discussions with his family, legal team, and political associates.

The media office emphasized that Mr. Bello has consistently respected the rule of law, seeking to ensure his fundamental rights are protected and to engage in due process. They noted that his legal team has consistently represented him at court hearings.

Furthermore, Yahaya Bello expressed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‘s administration and its anti-corruption efforts, stating his desire to clear his name of any accusations. His previous tenure as the Governor of Kogi State was marked by his initiative to establish anti-corruption mechanisms aimed at ensuring state resources are utilized for the public good.

The media statement mentioned that the former governor was accompanied to the EFCC by notable individuals and expressed hope that the Commission would conduct itself professionally, respecting Mr. Bello’s rights.

Details of the discussions with EFCC officials are expected to be released subsequently. Ohiare Michael, who serves as the Director for Yahaya Bello’s Media Office, confirmed that Mr. Bello was accompanied by high-profile Nigerians during his visit to the EFCC on September 18, 2024.