Former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Faces Fresh EFCC Investigation Ahead of Court Appearance

 

As the October 24, 2024, court date approaches for former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is reportedly expanding its probe to include several of his former aides. These individuals served under Bello's administration from 2016 to 2024 and are now being scrutinized in connection with allegations of corruption and misappropriation of public funds during his tenure.

Sources suggest that these investigations may lead to the arrest of some of the former aides, a few of whom are still holding positions in the current administration. The aides are suspected of playing roles in facilitating Bello’s alleged financial misconduct while he was in office.

Efforts to reach the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, for comments on the agency's strategy were unsuccessful. However, insider information indicates that the EFCC has gathered significant evidence against Bello, which far exceeds what has been presented in the ongoing case at the Federal Court in Abuja.

The EFCC, eager to move forward with its case, has faced challenges in bringing Bello to court, as he has reportedly been avoiding arrest for several months. An EFCC official confirmed that the agency holds strong evidence against the former governor, saying, "We have more evidence against Bello than people might expect. He knows we have detailed information about his alleged misappropriation during his time as governor."

The official further commented on Bello’s reliance on his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, believing that the governor’s immunity might shield him from prosecution. However, the EFCC remains confident that Bello will eventually face justice, emphasizing, "No one is above the law."

A senior female EFCC official, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitivity of the case, hinted at additional charges that could be brought against Bello. She mentioned that new revelations would likely surface during the trial, which may prompt some of Bello’s supporters, including civil society groups and Kogi lawmakers, to reassess their positions once the full details are unveiled.

The trial is set to continue on October 24, where Bello is expected to respond to a public summons and a new 16-count charge, alongside co-defendants Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu. The charges, which were filed on September 24, 2024, allege a criminal breach of trust involving N110.4 billion. The case has been delayed several times due to Bello’s failure to appear for arraignment.

Justice Maryanne Anenih of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama has ordered the EFCC to publish the public summons in major newspapers and deliver copies to Bello’s last known address, ensuring that the former governor faces the law.