The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is intensifying its pursuit of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, stating that he will face full prosecution over an alleged N80.2 billion money laundering scandal.
In a statement on Wednesday, September 25, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media & Publicity, emphasized the Commission’s commitment to ensuring justice regarding the money laundering charges.
Bello faces 19 counts brought against him by the EFCC in the Federal High Court, Abuja, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite.
Oyewale highlighted that, despite promises from Bello’s lawyers to bring him to court, the former governor has failed to appear for his arraignment. He dismissed claims that Bello was the target of assassination as mere ‘scaremongering’ intended to undermine the Commission.
According to Oyewale, Bello’s visit to the EFCC headquarters with security personnel and media attention required a strategic response to his reported offer to surrender.
The EFCC reassured the public of its unwavering dedication to combatting economic and financial crimes impartially. Oyewale mentioned that this year, the Commission has already arraigned three former ministers, two ex-governors, and several senior officials.
He stated that all former governors, ministers, and heads of ministries under investigation will soon face charges in court.
Oyewale said, “Yahaya Bello should be more interested in clearing his name than playing the victim and crying persecution, where none exists. His presence in court is the only step that will convince Nigerians that his reported submission to the EFCC on September 18 was not a stunt.”
He added, “The EFCC is not running a circus show. Corruption issues should not be turned into a theatre of the absurd. Those who harbor a criminal suspect should know that this is also a criminal offense punishable by law.”
The EFCC remains committed to tackling economic and financial crime without fear or favor, and it will uphold its policy of no sacred cows, regardless of the individuals involved.
