Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Saliu Gbadamosi
Published on 2024-04-17 12:32:21
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) were reported to have barricaded the residence of the immediate past Kogi governor, Yahaya Bello, at Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4 in Abuja this morning. The reason for the barricade is currently unknown, but it has been speculated that the anti-corruption commission intended to effect the arrest of the former governor, who has been embroiled in issues with the EFCC even before he left office in February. Movement in and out of the street leading to Bello’s house was restricted by the EFCC operatives.
The EFCC had recently joined Yahaya Bello as a co-defendant in an ongoing trial involving his nephew, Ali Bello, who serves as the current Chief of Staff to Governor Usman Ododo, as well as Dauda Sulaiman and Abdulsalam Hudu. This trial is in relation to an alleged N84 billion money laundering case before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja. On March 14, the commission amended the charges against Ali Bello, Sulaiman, and Hudu to include the former governor as the fourth defendant. The charges against them include money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of funds amounting to N84,062,406,089.88.
During court proceedings, the EFCC informed the judge that both Yahaya Bello and Abdulsalam Hudu were still at large at the time when the amended 17-count charge was filed. This situation has led to increased scrutiny and pressure on Bello, as the EFCC continues to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in the case.
The EFCC’s actions reflect the ongoing efforts by the Nigerian government to combat corruption and hold public officials accountable for their actions. With high-profile cases like the one involving Yahaya Bello and his co-defendants, the EFCC is sending a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated and that those who engage in illicit activities will face the consequences of their actions.
It is important for government officials and individuals in positions of power to act ethically and responsibly, as they are entrusted with the resources and welfare of the Nigerian people. The EFCC’s investigation into Yahaya Bello and others accused of financial misconduct demonstrates the agency’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Yahaya Bello and the other defendants will respond to the charges brought against them by the EFCC. The outcome of this trial will have significant implications for the fight against corruption in Nigeria and will send a clear message about the consequences of financial malpractice at the highest levels of government.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
