Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has responded to an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as confirmed by his media office on Wednesday.
In a statement issued by Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, it was revealed that Bello’s decision to meet with the anti-corruption body followed extensive consultations with his family, legal advisers, and political allies. The statement, titled “Former Governor Yahaya Bello Honors EFCC’s Invitation,” emphasized that the former governor was accompanied by several prominent figures during his visit to the EFCC headquarters.
Bello has been in a protracted conflict with the EFCC over allegations of financial misconduct during his time as governor. He and three others face 19 charges related to money laundering, amounting to N80.2 billion.
The statement also highlighted that Bello voluntarily engaged with the EFCC to defend his name, asserting that he has “nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”
Bello has previously sought legal recourse to protect his fundamental rights and ensure proper legal procedures are followed in the investigation. “The matter is already before a competent court, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello has been represented by his legal team at every session. It is crucial that the former Governor now responds to the EFCC’s invitation to clear his name, as he is confident in his innocence and has nothing to fear or nothing to hide,” the statement noted.
The former governor also reaffirmed his strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and its efforts to promote sustainable economic growth while combating corruption. He expressed his full commitment to the anti-corruption drive in Nigeria.
Efforts to reach Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s spokesperson, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
Back in April, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede had pledged to resign if the former governor is not prosecuted. Olukoyede vowed to see Bello’s case through to its conclusion and assured that anyone who impeded the ex-governor’s arrest would face justice.
