Despite the commission’s efforts, Ododo allegedly used his status as a sitting governor, and the legal immunity it provides, to shield Bello from arrest. This incident mirrors a previous attempt in April when Ododo is said to have facilitated Bello’s escape from another EFCC raid in the capital city.
Following the most recent incident, the EFCC denied having Bello in custody, despite reports suggesting that both Bello and Ododo had visited the commission’s headquarters on Wednesday. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed that Bello was not detained, contradicting claims by Bello’s media team.
EFCC operatives involved in the case said Ododo’s actions once again obstructed their efforts to apprehend Bello. “The Kogi State governor prevented us from arresting Yahaya Bello yesterday, just like he did the last time. He took him away, and our men could not act because of the immunity he enjoys as a sitting governor,” one official disclosed.
Attempts to reach the EFCC spokesperson for further comments were unsuccessful, as calls and messages to Dele Oyewale were not answered.
