A former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has responded to an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation into allegations of financial misconduct during his time in office.
Bello’s decision to appear before the anti-graft agency was confirmed by his media office on Wednesday, through a statement signed by Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office. The statement, titled “Former Governor Yahaya Bello Honours EFCC’s Invitation,” explained that the former governor’s appearance followed consultations with his family, legal team, and political associates.
The former governor, accompanied by several high-profile Nigerians, was welcomed at the EFCC headquarters to engage directly with the commission, which has been investigating him for alleged financial impropriety. Bello, along with three others, faces 19 counts of money laundering charges, with the case involving a sum of N80.2 billion.
Despite the serious allegations, the statement from Bello’s media office emphasized his readiness to cooperate with the EFCC to clear his name. The former governor was quoted as saying that he had “nothing to hide and nothing to fear” and was determined to engage transparently with the commission.
Bello had previously pursued legal avenues to safeguard his fundamental rights during the investigation, ensuring due process was followed. His legal team has consistently represented him in court, and his appearance before the EFCC is seen as a further step to clarify his position.
“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,” the statement read. “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.”
The statement also conveyed Bello’s commitment to the anti-corruption efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, expressing his belief in the country’s path toward sustainable economic development. Bello reiterated his support for the ongoing fight against corruption in Nigeria.
Efforts to reach EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, for further comments were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
The EFCC’s ongoing investigation into the former governor has been the subject of much attention. In April, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede pledged to follow Bello’s prosecution to its logical conclusion and vowed to ensure justice is served against those obstructing the process.
Bello’s appearance before the EFCC marks a critical point in what has been a contentious legal battle. The next steps in the case are eagerly anticipated as Nigerians closely monitor the proceedings.
source:punchng.com