A controversy has emerged following the reported visit of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters. While Bello’s media team claimed that he voluntarily visited the EFCC, the anti-graft agency countered these claims, stating that Bello remains a wanted individual.
In a statement on Thursday, Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, asserted that the ex-governor arrived at the EFCC office to honour an invitation. Michael explained that Bello made the decision after consulting his legal and political advisors, stating that the former governor aimed to clear his name of allegations and demonstrate his respect for the rule of law.
Michael emphasized that Bello supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s fight against corruption and was the first Kogi governor to implement anti-corruption measures in the state. Bello was reportedly accompanied by high-profile figures, including Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
However, the EFCC refuted these claims shortly after. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale clarified that Bello was not in custody and remains wanted for money laundering charges totaling N80.2 billion. The EFCC further asserted that a warrant for Bello’s arrest is still active.
The situation took another twist when Bello’s media team maintained that he had indeed visited the EFCC but was not interrogated. According to their statement, EFCC officials allowed Bello to leave without questioning him, leading to uncertainty about the next steps.
Bello, alongside several associates, faces 19 charges of money laundering. Despite the EFCC’s failed attempts to arrest him, the former governor continues to deny the allegations, claiming he is ready to cooperate with authorities to clear his name.
