Former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello has been brought before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama, Abuja, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This development follows a period during which Bello was reportedly in hiding since April 2024.
On Tuesday, at approximately 12:55 p.m., Bello was finally taken to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja. His apprehension marks a significant step in a long-standing investigation by the agency into various allegations against him.
Bello was declared wanted by the EFCC after he repeatedly failed to respond to several invitations for questioning. This lack of compliance led to him being tried in absentia, raising concerns about his accountability in the ongoing legal proceedings.
In an interview, EFCC operatives clarified that Bello’s arrest was not as straightforward as some reports suggested. Contrary to claims that he voluntarily drove himself to the agency, officials stated that he was tactically apprehended by detectives after substantial intelligence was gathered.
One detective emphasized that if Bello had truly surrendered willingly, he would likely have accompanied the current governor, Mr. Usman Ododo. This statement aimed to dispel rumors surrounding the circumstances of his arrival at the EFCC.
Bello faces serious allegations, including involvement in a significant money laundering case. The EFCC had issued a wanted notice for him on April 18, 2024, related to an N80.2 billion fraud charge, highlighting the gravity of the accusations against him.
New charges were filed against Bello, and the case was presented before Justice Maryanne Anenih at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja. This marks a critical moment in the legal proceedings as the court begins to address the fresh allegations.
Read also: EFCC Requests Yahaya Bello’s Trial in His Absence
During a hearing on November 14, the matter was adjourned, with today, November 27, set as the next date for proceedings. The EFCC’s counsel requested an adjournment in the new case, indicating ongoing developments in the investigation.
The EFCC also noted that the 30-day timeframe given to Bello, in accordance with legal protocols regarding previous summons, is still active. This situation underscores the complexities of the legal process as the case unfolds.
As the proceedings continue, the public and legal observers are keenly watching how the situation develops, particularly given the high-profile nature of the case and the significant implications for Bello and the political landscape in Kogi State.
