Activists slam Kogi Governor Ododo for allegedly shielding Bello from EFCC

Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State has come under fire for allegedly shielding his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, from arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

An activist and a lawyer have criticized Ododo for his actions, accusing him of hindering justice by preventing Bello from facing the EFCC over allegations of financial misconduct.

The controversy began when Ododo accompanied Bello to the EFCC’s office in what was described as an “unceremonious” manner.

Critics claim that Ododo’s presence was intended to shield Bello from arrest. The allegations against Bello, including the misappropriation of N80.2 billion, have sparked public outcry, with calls for the former governor to face the law.

A prominent lawyer, Adeyemi Sulaimon, condemned Ododo’s actions, stating that the governor is violating the very laws he swore to uphold. “If Governor Ododo is truly shielding former Governor Bello from arrest, it is a gross abuse of office. Such actions could have legal repercussions after his tenure ends,” Sulaimon said.

Sulaimon further urged Ododo to consider the long-term consequences of his behavior, noting that shielding a suspect from law enforcement could lead to serious legal challenges once his immunity as governor expires.

Nelson Ekujumi, convener of the Patriotism Awareness Forum (PAF), also weighed in, advising Ododo to distance himself from Bello to avoid legal and political fallout.

He stressed that the court is the appropriate forum for anyone facing allegations to clear their name.

The situation has reportedly drawn the attention of President Bola Tinubu, who is said to be displeased with the manner in which Ododo has handled the matter.

Tinubu, who recently returned from a trip to China, allegedly expressed concerns that the drama surrounding Bello and Ododo has cast a negative light on Nigeria’s ability to enforce the rule of law.

Despite both Bello and Ododo being members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu has refrained from intervening directly, opting to let the EFCC carry out its duties.

A source close to the presidency revealed that Tinubu had advised his aides to urge Bello to follow the example of other public officials who have cooperated with the EFCC.

“The president believes that if Bello is truly innocent, he should willingly present himself before the EFCC, provide evidence to clear his name, and, if necessary, seek redress in court,” the source added.

The source further explained that the president was disappointed that Bello, despite earlier claims of innocence, had not taken the opportunity to defend himself openly.

Tinubu expected Ododo, as governor, to encourage his predecessor to comply with the law rather than exacerbate tensions with law enforcement agencies.

An aide to Governor Ododo, however, defended his boss, stating that Ododo’s actions were in line with the directive of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

According to the aide, Ododo was merely fulfilling his responsibility by ensuring Bello appeared at the EFCC as instructed.

The aide emphasized that Ododo’s actions were lawful, citing instances where other governors had accompanied former officials to law enforcement offices.

He reiterated that Ododo remains committed to protecting the rights of all citizens in Kogi State, including his predecessor, as part of his duty as governor.

“The governor’s decision to accompany Bello was within his responsibilities, and there are legal provisions supporting his actions,” the aide said.

“Bello remains under his watch, and the governor’s oath to protect all citizens still applies in this case.”

The unfolding situation continues to attract widespread attention, as many await further developments in the case between Yahaya Bello and the EFCC.