18th September, 2024
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
The media team for former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has firmly maintained that he was present at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office, despite the EFCC’s denial of his detention.
Earlier today, the EFCC issued a statement refuting claims made by the former governor’s media team that he had visited their headquarters in Abuja.
The EFCC clarified that Bello is not in their custody, and emphasized that he remained wanted for alleged money laundering involving N80.2 billion, with a warrant still active for his arrest.
Dele Oyewale, the Head of Media & Publicity at the EFCC, stated: “Media reports today that a former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello, is in the holding facility of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is incorrect. The Commission wishes to state that Bello is not in its custody.”
In response, Bello’s media team, led by Ohiare Michael, reiterated their claim that the former governor was indeed at the EFCC office.
Michael’s statement read: “Earlier today, we reported the voluntary visit of former Governor HE Alhaji Yahaya Bello to the EFCC office to honor the Commission’s invitation. The former governor has always respected the rule of law and sought to enforce his fundamental rights to ensure due process.”
Michael further explained that Bello was not interrogated by EFCC officials, who allowed him to leave.
“We are unsure of the implications of this development at the moment. As of now, HE Alhaji Yahaya Bello has left the EFCC office, accompanied by Kogi State Governor HE Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.”
Michael also highlighted that the case involving Bello had been under judicial review, with the former governor’s legal team present at all hearings.
He emphasised that Bello chose to visit the EFCC to clear his name, asserting that he has nothing to hide or fear.
