EFCC Denies Holding Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified that former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is not currently in their custody, despite widespread media reports.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale explained that the ex-governor remains wanted for alleged involvement in an N80.2 billion money laundering case.
“Reports circulating today suggesting that Mr. Yahaya Bello is being held by the EFCC are inaccurate. We wish to confirm that he is not in our custody. However, Mr. Bello remains a wanted individual, with a standing warrant for his arrest,” Oyewale noted.
This statement from the EFCC stands in contrast to claims made by the media office representing Bello. Earlier on the same day, Ohiare Michael, the Director of Yahaya Bello’s Media Office, said the former governor had voluntarily visited the EFCC after consulting with his family, legal advisors, and political associates.
Michael confirmed that Bello, along with his successor, Usman Ododo, went to the EFCC office on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. However, Michael later clarified in a follow-up statement that Bello was not questioned and was asked to leave by EFCC officials without further engagement.
“We reaffirm the former governor’s deep respect for the rule of law and his commitment to due process. While he complied with the EFCC’s invitation, he was not interrogated and was told he could leave. He was accompanied by Governor Usman Ododo,” the statement read.
Earlier this year, in April, the EFCC declared Bello wanted over the N80.2 billion financial crime allegations. In a related incident, EFCC agents attempted to arrest Bello at his residence in Wuse, Abuja, but he was reportedly shielded by his successor, Ododo.
Though the case has been in court, the former governor has yet to make an appearance, with several hearings postponed.
Yahaya Bello served as the governor of Kogi State from January 2016 to January 2024, at which point he handed over power to Usman Ododo, his colleague in the All Progressives Congress (APC).
