The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has denied reports that former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello is in their custody.
This statement comes amidst conflicting reports about Bello’s whereabouts and his cooperation with the anti-graft agency.
According to EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale, ‘Media reports claiming Yahaya Bello is in our holding facility are incorrect.’
Oyewale emphasized that Bello remains a wanted individual, facing N80.2 billion money laundering charges with a subsisting arrest warrant.
This statement stands in stark contrast to assertions made by Bello’s Media Office. Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, had earlier claimed that the former governor had honored the EFCC’s invitation “after due consultations with his family, legal team and political allies.”
In a follow-up statement, Michael maintained that Bello did visit the EFCC office but was asked to leave without interrogation. “The EFCC did not, however, interrogate him as officials told him he could leave. We don’t know what this means yet,” Michael stated, adding that Bello was accompanied by his successor, Governor Usman Ododo.
The controversy surrounding Bello dates back to April when the EFCC declared him wanted for alleged financial crimes totaling N80.2 billion. A dramatic attempt to arrest Bello at his Abuja residence was thwarted when, according to the EFCC, he was whisked away by Governor Ododo.
Legal proceedings have been ongoing, but Bello has yet to appear before the trial judge despite multiple adjournments.
The former governor served Kogi State from January 27, 2016, to January 27, 2024, before handing over to Ododo, a fellow member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
