Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has clarified that he is currently not in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja because he was instructed to leave.
Bello stated that he attended the agency’s office on Wednesday to respond to an invitation regarding an alleged N80.2 billion fraud. He was accompanied by his successor, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State.
However, the anti-graft agency countered Bello’s claims, stating that he did not comply with the invitation and is still considered a wanted individual.
Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity at the EFCC, in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja said, “Media reports stating that former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello is currently in the EFCC holding facility are incorrect. The Commission clarifies that Bello is not in our custody.
He is wanted for alleged money laundering involving N80.2 billion, and an active arrest warrant is in place,” the EFCC announced.
In response, Governor Bello released a statement through his media office, signed by Ohiare Michael, asserting that he had left the EFCC headquarters without undergoing any interrogation, as officials had allowed him to go.
“Earlier today, we reported former Governor Yahaya Bello’s voluntary visit to the EFCC to honor the Commission’s invitation. We emphasized his deep respect for the rule of law and the need to uphold his fundamental rights throughout the process.
“However, the EFCC did not question him, as officials indicated he could leave. The implications of this are still unclear. As we write, HE Alhaji Yahaya Bello has departed the EFCC office, accompanied by the Governor of Kogi State, HE Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo,” Ohiare stated.
