Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has taken a significant step towards clearing his name by honoring an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
This development comes amidst an ongoing investigation into alleged financial impropriety during his tenure.
According to a statement from his media office, Bello’s decision to appear before the EFCC was made after consulting with his family, legal team, and political associates. He was accompanied to the EFCC headquarters by several high-profile Nigerians.
Bello has been facing 19 counts related to money laundering to the tune of N80.2 billion, alongside three others. Despite this, he maintains that he has “nothing to hide and nothing to fear.” His media office emphasized that he had previously sought to enforce his fundamental rights to ensure due process in the investigation.
*Bello’s Statement*
“The case has been before a competent court of jurisdiction, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello had been duly represented by his legal team at every hearing. It is important for the former Governor to now honour the invitation of the EFCC to clear his name as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”
*Support for Anti-Corruption Efforts*
Bello expressed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to promote sustainable economic development and combat corruption in Nigeria.
“The former Governor believes firmly in the efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to place Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic development; and supports the fight against corruption in the country.”
*EFCC Chairman’s Stance*
In April, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede vowed to resign if Bello is not prosecuted, pledging to follow the case to its logical conclusion and bring to justice those who obstructed the former governor’s arrest ¹ ² ³ ⁴.
