Yahaya Bello honours EFCC invitation
Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, on Wednesday, honoured an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after being declared wanted for alleged fraud and corrupt enrichment during his tenure. The invitation follows an ongoing investigation into accusations related to the mismanagement of public funds while he was in office.
In a statement released by his media team, it was revealed that Bello made the decision to appear before the EFCC after consultations with his family, legal advisers, and political allies. The statement emphasized that the former governor’s appearance was a show of respect for the rule of law and due process.
The media team stated: “The former Governor, who has great respect for the rule of law and constituted authority, had, all the while, only sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights to ensure due process was followed.” The statement went on to clarify that despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Bello had been represented by his legal team at every court hearing.
The former governor’s team highlighted that he was committed to clearing his name and maintaining his innocence, asserting that he has “nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”
Bello’s legal team has expressed confidence in the integrity of the judicial process, noting that the case is currently before a competent court. According to the statement, Bello aims to engage with the EFCC in a transparent manner and believes in the Commission’s commitment to professionalism.
Further, the statement underscored Bello’s commitment to anti-corruption measures, referencing his tenure as governor, during which he implemented mechanisms to combat graft in Kogi State. His media team lauded his efforts to ensure that state resources were effectively utilized for the people’s benefit, positioning him as a supporter of the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
The former governor’s appearance at the EFCC was seen as part of his commitment to uphold his belief in accountability and transparency. According to his team, “He was the first Governor of Kogi State to put in place an anti-corruption mechanism to check graft and ensure that the resources of the state work for the people of the state.”
Bello was accompanied by several high-profile individuals to the EFCC headquarters, although their identities have not yet been disclosed. His legal representatives hope that the EFCC will handle the case professionally and respect his fundamental rights as a Nigerian citizen throughout the investigation.
The former governor also expressed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and its efforts to steer Nigeria towards sustainable economic development. He emphasized that he stands firmly with the government’s fight against corruption, which he believes is critical to the nation’s progress.
Further details of Bello’s engagement with the EFCC operatives will be made public in due course, as investigations continue into the allegations against him. The development has sparked interest across political and legal circles, as many await the outcome of this high-profile case.
Details to follow.
