By Okafor Joseph Afam, November 26, 2024

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State, over allegations of financial impropriety during his tenure.

According to SaharaReporters, EFCC operatives detained Bello at their Abuja headquarters around 12:00 PM today. Sources reveal that the former governor is currently undergoing interrogation regarding charges of mismanagement of state funds, embezzlement, and abuse of office during his time as governor from 2016 to 2023.

Contrary to claims of a voluntary submission by Bello, a source disclosed that he was taken into custody by EFCC operatives at precisely 12:54 PM.

“Former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, was arrested by EFCC operatives in Abuja. He was not brought in willingly, as some media outlets have reported. He is currently being questioned at the EFCC headquarters,” the source revealed.

Fresh Charges Loom

This arrest follows recent charges filed by the EFCC against Bello for allegedly defrauding the state of N110 billion. In September, the anti-graft agency added these new charges to an existing case involving 19 counts of money laundering, totaling N80,246,470,088.88.

Bello’s co-defendants include his nephew Ali Bello, Dauda Suliman, and Abdulsalam Hudu. The additional charges bring the total amount of alleged financial misappropriation to N110,446,470,089.

Legal Hurdles

The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, recently denied bail applications for two of Bello’s co-defendants, Abdulsalam Hudu and Umar Oricho. Justice Maryanne Anenih emphasized that an earlier court order, dated October 3, granting the EFCC 30 days to investigate, was still in effect.

At the last hearing, EFCC counsel requested an adjournment to November 27, citing the need to allow the court order to run its course.

Public Reaction

Bello’s arrest has sparked mixed reactions across Nigeria, with many calling for transparency and justice in the investigation. Critics argue that this development underscores the need for accountability in governance, particularly concerning the management of public funds.

The EFCC has vowed to pursue the case diligently, signaling a continued crackdown on corruption in public offices.

Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.