The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reaffirmed that Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, is still at large and has been officially declared wanted by the agency.
Bello is currently entangled in a significant legal battle, facing allegations of involvement in a colossal N80 billion fraud during his tenure as governor.
The EFCC’s recent declaration stems from what it describes as Bello’s ongoing efforts to evade justice. Despite numerous court summonses and law enforcement attempts to apprehend him, Bello has remained elusive.
According to the EFCC, the charges against Bello center on the alleged misappropriation of public funds while he served as governor.
In a recent interview on New Central’s breakfast show, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, emphasized that the commission is actively pursuing the case in court. He mentioned that the matter has already been brought before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Oyewale described the ongoing court proceedings as a validation of the EFCC’s commitment to ensuring that Bello faces trial. He added that a recent Court of Appeal ruling further strengthens the commission’s resolve to see the case through.
“We are fully engaged and following the legal process to bring him to justice,” Oyewale stated. “The law is on our side, and we are doing everything within its bounds.”
He revealed that Bello was scheduled for arraignment but has so far managed to avoid attending six court sessions. Despite procedural delays, Oyewale reassured the public that all EFCC cases are being diligently pursued at every judicial level.
Oyewale also clarified that while the EFCC is responsible for investigation and prosecution, the ultimate adjudication rests with the judiciary. He urged the public to remain patient and trust in the judicial process.
When questioned about the possibility of an arrest, Oyewale confirmed that an arrest warrant had been issued, but Bello has continued to evade capture. The EFCC, he explained, declared Bello wanted, as is customary when a suspect refuses to surrender.
“We’ve issued 19 charges against him and have taken the case to court,” Oyewale noted, adding that both Bello’s legal team and EFCC lawyers are still appearing before the court.
Oyewale further stressed that declaring a suspect wanted is just one step in the process, and the EFCC is working with both local and international law enforcement agencies to ensure Bello is apprehended.
“We won’t disclose all our strategies and operations, but rest assured, the aim is to bring him to justice,” he said.
In addressing concerns about public trust in the EFCC, Oyewale acknowledged the challenges but highlighted the commission’s track record of convictions and recoveries as proof of its effectiveness in the fight against corruption.
“We remain confident in the EFCC’s integrity and professionalism,” he concluded. “Yahaya Bello’s case is one of many, and justice will prevail.”
Post A Comment: