The Kogi State Government has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of engaging in what it terms a political witch hunt against Alhaji Yahaya Adoiza Bello, the former governor of the state. The allegations, made public on Friday, March 15, by Kingsley Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communication, have raised serious questions about the motives behind the ongoing prosecution of Bello and several others over an alleged N84 billion fraud.
Fanwo's statement, reacting to the ongoing prosecution, vehemently denied any financial mismanagement during Bello's tenure, asserting that the state's accounts remain intact despite EFCC's allegations. He pointed fingers at external forces allegedly manipulating the EFCC to target the former governor, suggesting a politically motivated agenda.
Fanwo called upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to launch a special probe into the situation in Kogi State, urging him to intervene and prevent what he described as a smear campaign against Bello and the state. The statement emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and transparency in the fight against corruption, cautioning against politicizing such crucial matters.
The Kogi State Government's accusations have sparked widespread debate and scrutiny, highlighting the complexities and potential politicization of anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria. As the EFCC continues its investigation, the call for a special probe raises pertinent questions about the integrity of the process and the need for impartiality in pursuing justice. The unfolding situation underscores the challenges of balancing political interests with the imperative of combating corruption effectively.
