There are now undeniable indications that Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, has finally responded to the invitation issued by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) concerning allegations of financial misconduct during his time in office. This marks a notable development in the ongoing investigation into the management of public funds during his administration.
The EFCC, which has long been tasked with tackling corruption and financial crimes in Nigeria, appears to be ramping up its efforts to probe the alleged misappropriation of public resources under Bello’s leadership. These investigations are part of the commission's broader mandate to ensure accountability in the public sector.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that Yahaya Bello appeared at the EFCC office on Tuesday afternoon, accompanied by his legal team. The former governor arrived alone, as his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, was not seen with him during this visit to the EFCC. This marks an important moment in the unfolding legal proceedings against Bello, and it signals his willingness to cooperate with the commission in the ongoing investigation into his alleged actions while in office.
This move comes shortly after the Supreme Court's dismissal of a case brought forward by certain state governments that challenged the constitutionality of the EFCC's operations. This decision has cleared the way for the commission to proceed with its investigations and actions, including the case involving the former governor of Kogi State.
It was reported that Yahaya Bello drove himself to the EFCC office in a black Hilux vehicle, accompanied by his lawyers. This visit follows earlier speculation last week regarding the possibility of his attendance, although his media aides did not respond to inquiries regarding the matter at that time. The fact that he appeared as scheduled, however, suggests that the former governor is now fully engaging with the legal processes at hand.
At the last hearing held on November 14, the EFCC requested an adjournment for the next proceedings, which has now been set for tomorrow, November 27. The commission had stated that the 30-day window it had earlier provided for issuing the summons had yet to elapse. During this session, the EFCC also granted administrative bail to Yahaya Bello’s co-defendants, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu. The court also agreed to extend the time for the first defendant’s (Bello’s) appearance, a move that ultimately prompted the former governor’s visit to the EFCC office on Tuesday.
This development is expected to have significant implications for both the former governor and the ongoing case, as well as the wider issue of anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria. With this crucial step taken, many are closely watching to see how the investigation progresses in the coming days.
