- Former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, voluntarily has reportedly surrendered to the EFCC after initially snubbing their invitations several times
- The two-term governor said his decision was motivated by his respect for the rule of law
- Bello further shared that he believed in President Tinubu's efforts to curb corruption
The immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has publicly explained his decision to surrender to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following a prolonged period of ignoring their invitations and evading their arrest in order to address allegations of financial impropriety.
In a statement released on Wednesday, September 18, by his Media Office Director, Ohiare Michael, Bello stated that his voluntary surrender was rooted in his respect for the rule of law and his support for President Bola Tinubu’s anti-corruption agenda.
According to the statement, Bello consulted with his family, legal team, and political allies before engaging with the EFCC.
“This decision was made after due consultations,” the statement noted, highlighting his commitment to due process and enforcing his fundamental rights.
His legal team had represented the former governor in ongoing court proceedings related to the allegations, which he insists are unfounded. “It is important for the former Governor to now honor the invitation of the EFCC to clear his name, as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear,” the statement affirmed.
Bello expressed his belief in President Tinubu's efforts to lead Nigeria toward sustainable economic development and reinforced his support for the fight against corruption.
“It is on record that he was the first Governor of Kogi State to implement an anti-corruption mechanism aimed at ensuring that the state’s resources are utilized for the benefit of its people,” the statement concluded.
Court of Appeal overrides Kogi High Court, permits EFCC to prosecute Yahaya Bello
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the decision of the Kogi State High Court, which had restricted the EFCC from prosecuting Yahaya Bello on an N80 billion money laundering case, was overturned by the Court of Appeal in Abuja on Tuesday, August 20.
Bello avoided five court appearances for his arraignment on April 18, April 23, May 10, June 13, and June 27, by hiding and filing several motions disputing the EFCC’s and the court’s power to arraign him.
