Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has finally honored an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), following months of disputes and an attempted arrest by the agency. The move comes after prolonged negotiations and attempts to address the ongoing legal issues.
In a statement released on Wednesday by Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, it was confirmed that Bello responded to the EFCC’s invitation “after due consultations with his family, legal team, and political allies.”
The statement highlighted Bello’s respect for the rule of law and his commitment to due process. It read, “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.”
Bello’s legal team has represented him in court throughout the case, and he is now seeking to clear his name through cooperation with the EFCC, asserting that he has “nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”
The former Governor expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and its anti-corruption efforts, noting that he was the first Kogi State Governor to implement an anti-corruption mechanism.
Michael also mentioned that Bello was accompanied to the EFCC Headquarters by high-profile Nigerians and expressed hope that the Commission would conduct the proceedings professionally and respect his fundamental rights.
The development follows Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja adjourning proceedings in the EFCC’s money laundering case against Bello to September 25. The EFCC has filed a 19-count charge against Bello, alleging money laundering involving ₦80 billion. Bello had previously avoided EFCC invitations and boycotted court trials related to the case.
