The EFCC has arrested former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello over alleged misappropriation of N80.2 billion, money laundering, and breach of trust. Bello was handed over by Kogi Governor Usman Ododo. The charges include withdrawing $720,000 from state funds. This arrest underscores the EFCC's commitment to tackling corruption in Nigeria.
Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on allegations of misappropriating public funds totaling N80.2 billion. The arrest occurred in Abuja, where Bello was reportedly accompanied by the current Kogi governor, Usman Ododo, who facilitated his surrender.
Dele Oyewale, the EFCC spokesperson, confirmed the arrest and disclosed that Bello was taken into custody shortly before 1 p.m. He is currently undergoing questioning regarding multiple charges, including alleged money laundering and breach of trust.
Bello’s case has been in the spotlight for months. In April, the anti-graft agency declared him wanted after unsuccessful attempts to bring him in for questioning. In August, the Court of Appeal ordered Bello to submit himself for arraignment following allegations that he withdrew $720,000 from Kogi State funds to cover personal expenses, including his child’s school fees.
Despite prior appearances at the EFCC’s Abuja office, Bello avoided detention on those occasions. His apprehension now signals progress in the agency’s efforts to combat corruption and financial crimes among public officials.
The EFCC has filed a 19-count charge against the former governor, who had previously cited safety concerns for his absence at court proceedings. With his arrest, legal proceedings are expected to move forward as the anti-corruption agency intensifies its scrutiny of alleged financial mismanagement during Bello’s tenure as governor.
