Yahaya Bello, the erstwhile governor of Kogi State, failed to make an appearance in court on Thursday, evading the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) accusations of money laundering and fraud totaling a staggering N80 billion.
Despite the grave charges, the EFCC expressed its determination to apprehend Bello, even contemplating the use of military assistance after the former governor reportedly resisted arrest by agency officials just a day prior. Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), representing the EFCC, sternly warned of potential forceful measures outside the Federal High Court in Abuja. Pinheiro also accused Bello’s successor, Usman Ododo, of obstructing the agency’s lawful attempts to execute a court order for Bello’s arrest.
- Former Aviation Minister Arrested for N8 Billion Nigeria Air Fraud
- Nigerian Army Releases Monarch Declared Wanted Over Okuama Killings
- NNPP founder: Kwankwaso broke my confidence
“What happened yesterday was that someone with immunity, Ododo, came to take him (Bello) away to stop his arrest,” Pinheiro disclosed. “We are aware that he is being housed in the home of his successor. A person’s immunity is linked to them, not to their residence. In order to carry out this court’s order, we can request the military to storm the building where he is being held.”
The EFCC’s legal representative stressed the significance of Bello appearing in court to confront the allegations against him, drawing a parallel to the legal accountability even former US presidents face when indicted. Pinheiro urged Bello to subject himself to the judicial process if he maintains his innocence.
The unfolding drama follows the EFCC’s raid on Bello’s Abuja residence in Wuse Zone 4 on Wednesday, during which Ododo purportedly intervened to thwart Bello’s arrest, subsequently whisking him away in a government vehicle.
The EFCC’s determination to hold Bello accountable for the alleged financial misconduct underscores the gravity of the charges and the agency’s commitment to combating corruption at all levels. As the legal battle intensifies, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Bello and the unfolding drama surrounding his legal troubles.
Stay tuned for further updates as the saga continues to unfold, revealing new twists and turns in this high-profile case of alleged financial wrongdoing.
