Drama as EFCC, Yahaya Bello engage in game of wits

The long-drawn battle between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, became dramatic on Wednesday, as both parties bickered over Yahaya honouring an invitation. While the media team of the former Kogi helmsman, through a press release signed by its Director, Ohiare Micheal, informed the public that Bello honoured EFCC’s invitation, the commission dismissed the team’s claim that the former governor had done so.

Bello’s media team, in its press release, had stated that the former governor decided to honour the invitation following consultations with his family, lawyers, and political associates. The release added that Bello, who, according to the team, had great respect for the rule of law and constituted authority, had previously not honoured the EFCC’s invitation as he sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights to ensure due process.

The media team emphasized the importance of honouring the invitation to clear his name, claiming, “he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.” The statement reiterated that Yahaya Bello had been duly represented by his legal team in court hearings and that his decision to engage with the EFCC aligned with his respect for due process and the law.

The press release further noted that Bello believed firmly in the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to fight corruption and support Nigeria’s sustainable economic development. It also highlighted that Bello was the first Kogi governor to establish an anti-corruption mechanism in the state. Accompanied by high-profile Nigerians, Bello attended the EFCC headquarters, as per the release.

The media team expressed hope that the EFCC would act professionally and respect Bello’s fundamental rights as a Nigerian citizen. However, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale, in a press statement, contradicted these claims, stating that Bello remained wanted by the commission on allegations of N80.2 billion money laundering charges. He clarified that media reports claiming Bello was in EFCC custody were inaccurate.

Minutes after Oyewale’s statement, Yahaya Bello’s media office released another statement, insisting that the former governor had indeed visited the EFCC’s headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, accompanied by the Kogi State governor, Ahmed Ododo. According to Ohiare Michael, Bello was not interrogated by EFCC officials, who instead allowed him to leave, leaving his team uncertain about the next steps.

A member of Bello’s legal team, speaking anonymously, confirmed to the Nigerian Tribune that Bello had visited the EFCC but did not provide further details. An insider also told the Tribune that the former governor was indeed seen at the commission’s premises on Wednesday.