25th September, 2024
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called on former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, to focus on defending himself against allegations of financial misconduct rather than portraying himself as a victim of political persecution.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday, the EFCC insisted that Bello should prioritize clearing his name in court, where he faces an 18-count charge of money laundering.
The Commission expressed frustration over the former governor’s continuous attempts to disrupt the legal process, accusing him of employing diversionary tactics to avoid standing trial.
According to the EFCC, Bello’s claim that he was targeted for assassination following efforts to arrest him at the Kogi State Governor’s Lodge is both “preposterous” and “unfounded.”
“It is outrageous for Yahaya Bello to insinuate that he was a target of a phantom assassination attempt because the EFCC sought to apprehend him,” the statement read.
“Such baseless accusations are nothing more than a cheap attempt at sensationalism, designed to distract from the real issue – the charges he must answer in court.”
The Commission maintained that Bello’s failure to present himself before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, where the charges against him have been filed, is unacceptable.
They warned that despite his legal team’s undertakings to produce him in court, Bello continues to evade justice.
The EFCC highlighted that Bello’s actions, including a well-publicized appearance at the Commission’s headquarters on September 18, were mere stunts intended to manipulate public perception.
Despite his media spectacle, Bello has yet to formally take a plea in the alleged N80.2 billion money laundering case filed against him.
The EFCC noted that, while his September 18th appearance garnered significant media attention, Bello’s decision to arrive with a large entourage, including security personnel, was a calculated move to intimidate rather than cooperate with the law.
“His grandstanding, media blitz, and unwarranted display of power were orchestrated to create confusion and delay the legal process,” the EFCC noted.
“We are eager to engage the former governor in court, where the evidence we have painstakingly gathered will be presented, and justice will be served.”
The Case Against Bello
Yahaya Bello has been accused of laundering N80.2 billion during his tenure as governor, a charge that he has repeatedly denied.
Despite months of being sought by law enforcement, the former governor has managed to evade arrest and has used various legal and public relations tactics to avoid prosecution.
The EFCC emphasized that the court is the only legitimate forum where Bello could defend himself, urging him to appear and answer the charges.
“His presence in court is the only step that will demonstrate his willingness to abide by the law and face the allegations head-on,” the Commission declared. “Until he does so, all his attempts to paint himself as a victim of persecution are hollow and unconvincing.”
EFCC’s Commitment to Justice
Despite Bello’s attempts to frustrate the judicial process, the EFCC has reaffirmed its commitment to seeing the case through to its conclusion.
“The EFCC is resolute in ensuring that corruption is rooted out of our system, no matter how powerful the individuals involved may be. Yahaya Bello must have his day in court, and no amount of media manipulation, emotional appeals, or legal maneuvering will prevent justice from being served.”
The EFCC further noted that within the past year, it had successfully arraigned three former ministers, two ex-governors, and numerous top government officials.
The Commission emphasized that its efforts in tackling corruption are ongoing, with more cases expected to reach court in the coming months.
“The fight against corruption is far from over, and we will continue to pursue those who have misappropriated public funds, no matter their status or influence.”
Public Support and Corruption’s Resistance
The EFCC also used the opportunity to remind the public that corruption often “fights back,” especially when high-profile figures are involved. They urged Nigerians to be wary of media spectacles and emotional appeals aimed at diverting attention from serious financial crimes.
“The Commission remains sensitive to public opinion but will not be swayed by sentiment or coordinated attacks in the media. Our integrity and commitment to fighting corruption remain intact,” the EFCC assured.
“We urge the public to remain steadfast in supporting the rule of law and not to fall prey to tactics designed to turn criminal proceedings into a theatre of the absurd.”
The anti-graft agency concluded by reaffirming that there are “no sacred cows” in its pursuit of justice.
Regardless of status or influence, the EFCC said it would continue to hold individuals accountable for their actions and would not allow corruption to derail Nigeria’s progress.
“As we pursue this case and many others, we are guided by our operational codes and standards. Yahaya Bello’s case will not define the success or failure of the EFCC, but we are committed to ensuring that justice is served, for the sake of the Nigerian people and the future of our country.”
