Police Assigned to Yahaya Bello Withdrawn by IG

The Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has issued an order for the withdrawal of all police officers previously assigned to the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, as per a police wireless message. The directive, referenced as “CB:4001/DOPS/PMF/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.48/34,” emphasizes strict compliance with the withdrawal.

The Nigerian Immigration Service has also taken action by placing the former governor on its watchlist following allegations from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding an alleged money laundering case amounting to N80.2 billion. The NIS circular, dated April 18, 2024, and signed by Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, DS Umar, provides the necessary details, including the former governor’s name, nationality, and passport number (B50083321).

It’s worth noting that the individual is undergoing prosecution at the Federal High Court in Abuja for charges including conspiracy, breach of trust, and money laundering, as stated in a letter referenced as CR; 3000/EFCC/LS/EGCS.1/ TE/Vide/1/279 dated April 18, 2024.

Earlier, the EFCC declared Yahaya Bello wanted and urged the public to provide any relevant information about his whereabouts. This declaration followed the granting of a warrant of arrest by the Federal High Court in Abuja, allowing the EFCC to apprehend Bello and three other suspects for arraignment on 19 counts related to money laundering. However, an attempt by EFCC operatives to arrest Bello at his Abuja residence was thwarted by a group of armed men, including “Special Forces” and Nigeria Police Force officers.

Subsequently, it was reported that the current governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, intervened to prevent the arrest of his predecessor. Ododo’s security team reportedly escorted Bello away from the scene in the governor’s vehicle, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.