Assembly Accuses EFCC of Misconduct
The Kogi State House of Assembly has called for the immediate dismissal of the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, following what it described as an unprofessional handling of a corruption case involving former Kogi governor, Yahaya Bello. During Monday’s plenary, lawmakers expressed outrage over the EFCC’s actions, particularly during a recent incident at the Kogi Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, where EFCC agents attempted to arrest Bello.
Allegations of Assassination Attempt
The legislators accused the EFCC of not only mishandling the case but also attempting to assassinate both Yahaya Bello and the incumbent Governor, Usman Ododo. The Assembly claimed that EFCC operatives allegedly fired gunshots during the arrest attempt, endangering the lives of both political figures. The lawmakers described the EFCC’s approach as humiliating and reckless.
Calls for EFCC Chairman’s Dismissal
Several lawmakers, including Akus Lawal and Abu Jibril, spoke in support of removing Olukoyede from his position.They argued that the EFCC had crossed a line, with Jibril directly calling for the chairman’s prosecution for his alleged role in the assassination attempt. The Assembly also insisted that the governor’s lodge must receive the same respect and protection as a diplomatic residence.
Accusations of Political Bias
The debate also touched on allegations that the EFCC was acting on the instructions of political enemies of Yahaya Bello. Majority Leader Suleiman AbdulRazak claimed that EFCC officials asked the former governor to stage a fake arrest to create a media spectacle. He argued that the incident was an orchestrated effort to embarrass the former governor and destabilize the current administration in Kogi State.
Assembly’s Resolution to President Tinubu
The Kogi Assembly concluded the session by passing a resolution urging President Bola Tinubu to relieve the EFCC chairman of his duties. The Assembly cited gross incompetence and misuse of power, arguing that the EFCC was no longer focused on fighting corruption but instead pursuing personal agendas. They stressed the need for a competent leader to restore the integrity of the anti-graft agency.
NGO Criticizes Kogi Governor’s Actions
In a related development, a non-governmental organization, Journalists Against Corruption (JAC), accused Governor Usman Ododo of shielding his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, from justice. The NGO called on President Tinubu to intervene, accusing Ododo of obstructing the EFCC’s efforts to arrest and prosecute Bello. JAC warned that the governor’s actions could tarnish Nigeria’s global reputation and undermine the rule of law.
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