Former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello was turned away by the EFCC after arriving with a sitting governor, breaching commission protocols. The EFCC denied Bello's custody claims, maintaining that he remains wanted for alleged misappropriation of N80 billion in state funds.
Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello attempted to visit the EFCC on September 18 but was turned away due to his arrival with a sitting governor, breaching EFCC protocol. An anonymous EFCC source confirmed that Bello’s convoy, including the governor, violated procedures, as no Nigerian, regardless of status, should attend in such a manner.
The EFCC's Executive Chairman directed that no official should attend to Bello because his arrival with the governor, who holds immunity, skipped essential documentation stages. According to the source, the governor’s presence was unjustified, and Bello was expected to come with his lawyer rather than politically exposed persons.
This breach raised concerns about political influence over the legal process. The EFCC emphasized that their system would not be intimidated or compromised. Bello’s media team had earlier created false impressions, claiming he was in EFCC custody. However, the EFCC quickly refuted this, maintaining that Bello remains a wanted person for allegedly misappropriating N80 billion of state funds.
The visit's failed attempt to meet EFCC's requirements underscores the need for strict adherence to legal processes and the commission's commitment to tackling corruption, regardless of an individual's political connections. The ongoing case involving Bello highlights the complexities surrounding high-profile figures and the legal system.
