In a bold statement, former Governor Yahaya Bello has accused the EFCC of executing a politically motivated hatchet job against him, claiming that unknown interests are behind the agency’s ongoing money laundering case. Read Full Revelations From Yahaya Bello;
The media office of Yahaya Bello, the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, has leveled serious accusations against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alleging that the anti-graft agency is engaged in a politically motivated hatchet job. According to Bello’s team, the EFCC is desperate to tarnish the former governor’s reputation under the guise of fighting corruption.
In a strongly worded statement released on Wednesday, signed by Bello’s media aide, Ohiare Michael, the office accused the EFCC of bias, claiming the agency’s focus on the former governor is driven by hidden political interests. The statement further described recent EFCC actions as a “face-saving but poorly executed attempt” to maintain credibility in an ongoing money laundering case involving the ex-governor.
Bello’s media office pointed to procedural missteps by the EFCC, citing the agency’s failure to detain or interrogate the former governor despite his voluntary submission for questioning last Wednesday. After spending four hours at the EFCC headquarters, Bello was allowed to leave, only for EFCC operatives to allegedly raid the Kogi Government Lodge that same night in a surprising turn of events.
“If the EFCC were genuinely interested in pursuing justice, why was Governor Yahaya Bello allowed to go after voluntarily presenting himself?” Ohiare asked. “Their actions suggest ulterior motives, possibly tied to political interests that seek to humiliate and damage the former governor.”
The statement further criticized the EFCC’s handling of the case, alleging that the agency is acting under the influence of individuals who aim to undermine Bello’s political career. The media office asserted that the EFCC’s focus on Kogi State and Yahaya Bello reveals an agenda beyond the fight against corruption.
Despite the EFCC’s continued press releases, Bello’s media office insisted that the former governor remains committed to the rule of law. “His Excellency has always adhered to legal processes and has consistently been represented by his lawyers in court,” the statement said, adding that Bello will have his day in court but expects a fair trial based on the law, not politically motivated prosecution.
The office went on to criticize the EFCC’s public statements, describing them as “rogue” and crafted to satisfy the whims of powerful interests behind the scenes. “The EFCC is engaging in an elaborate show to satisfy certain individuals who seek to tarnish Bello’s reputation,” Ohiare stated.
Bello’s team expressed confidence that the truth would eventually emerge, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant about the agency’s actions. The media office also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to investigate the EFCC’s conduct, claiming that the agency’s tactics could harm Nigeria’s international reputation.
Yahaya Bello, who has long portrayed himself as a democrat and advocate for the rule of law, remains defiant in the face of the allegations. His office insists that the former governor will continue to challenge the charges against him, upholding his right to a fair trial.
The media office concluded by reaffirming Bello’s commitment to transparency, while lambasting the EFCC for its handling of the case. “Former Governor Yahaya Bello is innocent until proven guilty. The EFCC must understand that this is Nigeria, where the rule of law prevails.”
As the battle between Yahaya Bello and the EFCC continues, questions remain about the agency’s true motives and the political undercurrents driving the case.
Support Afnews Independent Journalism
At Afnews, we are dedicated to providing accurate, insightful, and timely news coverage. Our commitment to journalistic integrity ensures that you receive trustworthy information, unfiltered and unbiased. To maintain our independence and continue delivering quality content, we rely on the support of our readers.
If you value the work we do, please consider making a contribution. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the stories that matter.
Donate today and help us keep independent journalism alive. Thank you for your support!
