The Presidency has shed light on the complex legal situation that has prevented security agencies from arresting former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello, despite numerous attempts.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga discussed the issue during an appearance on Channels Television’s socio-economic program, ‘Inside Sources with Laolu Akande’ on Sunday.
Onanuga pointed out the unique challenges posed by Bello’s close ties to his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, who is protected by constitutional immunity.
In April, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) declared Bello wanted for his alleged involvement in a financial crime linked to N80.2 billion. Despite the EFCC’s persistent efforts to apprehend him, these attempts have been obstructed, as Ododo is reportedly providing shelter for Bello at his official residence.
When questioned about the police’s inability to order Ododo’s security detail to arrest Bello, Onanuga explained, “It’s a bit complicated. The EFCC is a Federal Government agency seeking to arrest Yahaya Bello, who is essentially hiding under the protection of Kogi State’s governor, his successor, who enjoys immunity.”
He emphasized that while the EFCC is determined to bring Bello to justice, Governor Ododo’s constitutional immunity complicates any attempt to detain the former governor.
Onanuga further elaborated, “The problem lies in the fact that if Bello remains within Governor Ododo’s residence, the police cannot intervene without violating the immunity that Ododo possesses.
“It’s akin to a diplomat enjoying certain protections; there’s little that can be done. Recall the case in the UK when authorities sought the Wikileaks founder, who took refuge in an embassy, and they had no choice but to leave him there until he eventually emerged and was arrested,” he added, illustrating the EFCC’s predicament.
“It’s the same situation here. Ododo has immunity, and it is believed that Yahaya Bello is hiding there. They cannot simply storm the residence to arrest him. This is the challenge facing the EFCC, and the police are unable to assist,” he concluded.
The former Kogi State governor, who served from 2016 until May 2024, has repeatedly failed to appear in court despite numerous summons and adjournments in his case.
