The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has disclosed plans to arraign former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello before a Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The move follows a warrant of arrest granted by the court against Bello, alongside three other suspects, Ali Bello, Dauda Abdulsalam Hudu, and an individual still at large, on charges relating to money laundering totaling N80,246,470,088.88.
In a press statement on Wednesday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale announced the development, stating, “Bello’s arraignment is coming on the heels of a warrant of arrest and enrollment order granted the EFCC by the court on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.”
The charges against Bello and his co-defendants encompass a range of allegations, including conspiracy to convert funds, aiding in concealing unlawful proceeds, and indirect involvement in transferring funds to overseas accounts. The EFCC highlighted counts related to various instances of money laundering, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations.
The EFCC further revealed that their attempt to execute the arrest warrant against Bello faced resistance, with the current Governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, allegedly facilitating Bello’s departure from his residence in Abuja in an official vehicle. Oyewale noted, “As a responsible law enforcement agency, the EFCC exercised restraint in the face of the provocation, waiting for his arraignment on Thursday, April 18, 2024.”
The statement underscored the principle that no individual, regardless of their status, is above the law, affirming the EFCC’s commitment to ensuring justice prevails in the matter.
The looming trial of Yahaya Bello highlights the ongoing efforts to address corruption and financial misconduct within Nigeria’s political landscape, signaling a determination to hold accountable those accused of malfeasance.
