Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alleges that former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello withdrew $720,000 from state funds to pay his child's school fees in advance.
Speaking during an interactive session with media executives in Abuja, Olukoyede claimed that Bello transferred the money from the state's coffers to a bureau de change operator for this purpose.
According to Olukoyede, Bello made this payment in anticipation of the end of his tenure, indicating a misuse of government funds. The EFCC chairman expressed concern over the blatant misuse of public funds, particularly in a state like Kogi known for its economic challenges.
The EFCC has been investigating Bello for alleged financial misconduct, with operatives previously laying siege to his residence in Abuja over allegations of diverting about N80 billion belonging to the Kogi government.
Despite being declared wanted by the anti-graft agency and placed on a watchlist by the Nigeria Immigration Service, Bello was reportedly rescued by his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, when EFCC operatives attempted to arrest him.
These latest allegations further compound the legal and political challenges facing Bello, as the EFCC intensifies its efforts to hold him accountable for alleged financial improprieties.
The accusations raise questions about governance and accountability in Nigeria, particularly concerning the management of public funds by elected officials.
As the investigation progresses, there is growing public scrutiny and anticipation regarding the outcome of the EFCC's probe into Bello's financial activities during his tenure as governor of Kogi State.
