BREAKING: Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Surrenders to EFCC After Months on the run

Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Surrenders to EFCC After Months on the run

Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, who has been on the run for months after being declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has finally appeared at the agency’s headquarters.

The former governor was summoned over allegations of money laundering and corruption, involving an alleged sum of N80.2 billion.

In a statement released on Wednesday by Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, the former governor’s appearance followed extensive consultations with his family, legal team, and political allies.

According to the statement, Bello had previously sought to enforce his fundamental human rights, emphasizing that he has always respected the rule of law and due process.

“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 added that the former governor’s decision to honor the EFCC invitation was to clear his name, asserting that he has “nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”

Bello’s legal team has repeatedly maintained that he is a supporter of the anti-corruption fight led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, describing him as the first Kogi State governor to establish mechanisms to combat graft and ensure state resources were used for the benefit of the people.

Bello was accompanied to the EFCC office by several high-profile individuals. His team expressed hope that the EFCC would conduct its investigation professionally while respecting his fundamental rights as a citizen of Nigeria.