Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, has finally acquiesced to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) summons, ending a prolonged standoff with the anti-graft agency.
It is recalled that Bello was sued by the EFCC on a 19-count charge of alleged money laundering to the tune of ₦80bn.
Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, confirmed the ex-governor’s compliance in a statement released on Wednesday.
“The former Governor, who has great respect for the rule of law and constituted authority, had, all the while, only sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights in order to ensure due process,” Michael stated.
The decision to honor the EFCC’s invitation reportedly came after due consultations with his family, legal team, and political allies.
This move marks a significant shift in Bello’s stance, as he had previously avoided both EFCC interrogations and court appearances related to the case.
Michael emphasized Bello’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and its anti-corruption efforts, stating, “The former Governor believes firmly in the efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to place Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic development; and supports the fight against corruption in the country.”
The statement also highlighted Bello’s past initiatives in combating corruption within Kogi State.
“It is on record that he was the first Governor of Kogi State to put in place an anti-corruption mechanism to check graft and ensure that the resources of the State work for the people of the State,” Michael noted.
The EFCC’s case against Bello includes 19 counts of alleged money laundering, a charge the former governor has consistently denied.
The legal proceedings have been ongoing, with the most recent development being Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court Abuja adjourning the case to September 25.
Bello’s surrender to the EFCC was not a solitary event. According to Michael, the former governor was accompanied to the EFCC Headquarters by high-profile Nigerians.
The media office expressed hope for a professional handling of the case by the EFCC, stating, “It is our hope that the Commission will be as professional as necessary and respect his fundamental rights as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
