EFCC Refutes Yahaya Bello Surrender Claims
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refuted claims that it has former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in its custody. Despite earlier reports from Bello’s media office that he had “honoured” the EFCC’s invitation, the anti-graft agency made it clear that the former governor is still on the run. Bello has been declared wanted over an alleged ₦80.2 billion fraud case.
Bello Still Wanted by the EFCC
In response to the media reports, the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, stated that Yahaya Bello is not in the commission’s custody. “The Commission wishes to state that Bello is not in its custody. He remains wanted with a subsisting warrant for his arrest,” Oyewale clarified. The EFCC declared Bello wanted in April after he failed to respond to multiple summons and resisted arrest.
Allegations of Fraud Against Bello
Authorities accuse Yahaya Bello of siphoning ₦80.2 billion during his tenure as governor of Kogi State. Despite efforts by the EFCC, police, and Department of State Services (DSS) to arrest him, Bello managed to evade capture with the help of his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, who allegedly whisked him away during an attempted arrest at his Abuja residence.
Controversial School Fee Payment
Bello allegedly paid $720,000 to the American International School of Abuja for his five children’s fees using Kogi State Government funds. After exposing the payment, the school returned the money, raising further concerns about Bello’s misuse of public funds.
EFCC Maintains Pressure
Despite the former governor’s efforts to evade capture, the EFCC has vowed to pursue the case diligently. With a warrant still out for his arrest, the anti-graft agency is coordinating with other law enforcement bodies to ensure that Bello faces justice for the alleged financial mismanagement during his time in office.
Public Outcry Over Bello’s Case
Yahaya Bello’s continued evasion has sparked public outcry, with many Nigerians demanding accountability. The EFCC’s persistence in pursuing the case reflects the growing pressure on Nigerian leaders to answer for corruption charges, especially in cases involving large sums of public funds.
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