In a twist of event, Former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State on Wednesday finally reported himself to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja to clear his name in a case of alleged N82 billion corruption charge levied against him.
Bello was accompanied to the EFCC Headquarters by high profile Nigerians.
Ohiare Michael,
Director, Yahaya Bello Media Office confirmed the development to newsmen.
He said the former governor decided to turn himself in “as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”
Bello has been drawn in a ling battle with the EFCC over his refusal to honour the invitation of the anti – graft agency.
The development forced the EFCC to approach court to compel Bello’s appearance but he remained adamant.
The EFCC after securing court order consequently declared Bello wanted.
The anti – graft also notified a sister agency, the Nigeria Immigration Service to help apprehend Bello anytime he is sighted.
Since then, Bello quietly went under ground until his sudden appearance at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja today, Wednesday, September 18, 2024.
However, Ohiare Michael, said Bello’s decision to honour EFCC invitation was made : ” after due consultations with his family, legal team and political allies.
“The former Governor, who has great respect for the rule of law and constituted authority, had, all the while, only sought the enforcement of his fundamental rights in order to ensure due process.
“The case has been before a competent court of jurisdiction, and Alhaji Yahaya Bello had been duly represented by his legal team at every hearing.
“It is important for the former Governor to now honour the invitation of the EFCC to clear his name as he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear.”
The statement quoted Bello as expressing his firm believe “in the efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to place Nigeria on the path of sustainable economic development; and supports the fight against corruption in the country.
“It is on record that he was the first Governor of Kogi State to put in place an anti-corruption mechanism to check graft and ensure that the resources of the State work for the people of the State.
“He was accompanied to the EFCC Headquarters by high profile Nigerians.
“It is our hope that the Commission will be as professional as necessary and respect his fundamental rights as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. ” (vitalnewsngr.com)
