November 26, 2024
By Samuel Ogunsona
A former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, is currently in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged misappropriation of funds.
According to reports, operatives of the commission are grilling the former Governor, although it is unclear whether he was arrested or voluntarily turned himself in with his lawyers.
The EFCC had previously declared Bello wanted in April after he allegedly shunned a series of invitations and resisted arrest.
The anti-graft agency had obtained a warrant of arrest and enrolment order against Bello, but their attempt to execute it was met with resistance.
At the last hearing on November 14, the EFCC had sought an adjournment till November 27 in the fresh case it instituted against Bello, citing the 30-day window for the summons earlier issued.
Bello is facing a 19-count charge bordering on money laundering to the tune of N80.2 billion.
The EFCC had alleged that Bello conspired with others to convert the sum, which he reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of his unlawful activity.
The former Governor’s arraignment was initially scheduled for April 18, but it was stalled due to his absence.
The EFCC had expressed its commitment to bringing Bello to justice, stating that he is not above the law.
