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Published on 2024-04-18 11:04:29
The federal government has issued a call to Yayaha Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, urging him to honor the invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for investigation. This call was made through the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and respecting the rights of all citizens, including Bello.
In response to the drama surrounding the EFCC’s attempts to probe and arrest Governor Bello, AGF Fagbemi urged Bello to comply with the EFCC’s request and allow the agency to carry out its constitutional duties without any hindrance. He expressed his concern over Governor Ahmed Ododo’s use of his immunity to prevent Bello’s arrest on April 17, describing it as ‘disquieting’.
AGF Fagbemi emphasized the need for all individuals, regardless of their status, to cooperate with law enforcement agencies like the EFCC when invited for questioning. He condemned any attempts to obstruct the EFCC’s investigations or evade accountability, stating that such actions only serve to tarnish Nigeria’s reputation on the global stage.
Fagbemi’s statement highlighted the gravity of the situation and reaffirmed the legal authority of the EFCC to invite individuals for questioning, emphasizing the importance of responding to such invitations with decorum and respect for the rule of law. He called on all Nigerians to uphold the principles of decency and civility when dealing with law enforcement agencies, rather than resorting to self-help or evasive tactics.
The incident involving Governor Ododo’s departure from Bello’s residence in Abuja, accompanied by sporadic gunshots and a standoff with security operatives, underscored the escalating tensions surrounding the EFCC’s investigation. The reinforcement of security forces from the police and Department of State Services (DSS) further highlighted the seriousness of the situation.
In conclusion, the federal government’s message to Governor Bello and all Nigerian citizens is clear: compliance with law enforcement agencies and respect for the rule of law are essential for upholding justice and accountability. The call to toe the path of decency and civility in the face of investigations is a reminder of the collective responsibility to uphold the principles of transparency and integrity in governance.
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